Barunga Village awarded grant to deliver WorkFoundations Project in Aged Care sector

Barunga Village is proud to announce that it has been selected as one of only 16 organisations nationwide, and one of just six in South Australia to deliver the WorkFoundations initiative, funded through the Australian Government’s Paid Employment Pathways Package.

The initiative is part of a $10 million investment by the Albanese Labor Government to create an inclusive labour market by supporting job seekers facing complex barriers to employment.

“We are honoured to be selected as a WorkFoundations provider,” said Elizabeth Carroll, Chief Executive Officer.

 

“This is a significant opportunity for us to address some of the critical workforce shortages in aged care while also making a real difference in the lives of people who have been excluded from traditional pathways into employment.”

The ‘Pathways to Potential’ WorkFoundations project delivered by Barunga Village aims to improve employment opportunities for individuals facing complex barriers through structured, supported and paid work placements.

Spanning from July 2025 to June 2027, the project will support 30 participants through tailored training, mentorship and wrap-around services, while also driving inclusive workforce development at Barunga Village. Key deliverables include a buddy program, participant training and support packages, inclusive onboarding processes and formal evaluation reporting. With a budget of $530,847 (grant funding of $450,500), the project is strategically aligned with Barunga Village’s commitment to inclusivity, workforce innovation and community impact.

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth said the WorkFoundations program represents a strategic partnership between government and employers across Australia, so employers too will benefit from WorkFoundations by learning how inclusive hiring can strengthen and deliver sustained value for their business.

Barunga Village looks forward to working with partners, participants and the community to help make aged care more inclusive, resilient and responsive to future workforce needs.