Ten people from the local community will have the opportunity to gain paid employment, training and hands-on experience through Hospitality Futures, a new Barunga Village program designed to create pathways into the aged care workforce.
The program will provide six-month paid employment placements at Barunga Village’s residential aged care homes in Port Broughton and Crystal Brook, including four kitchenhand roles and six housekeeping positions. Hospitality Futures is funded through the Australian Government’s Local Jobs Program under the Local Jobs, Local People grant.
Commencing on 1 July 2026, the program aims to support people in the local community who are currently out of work or facing barriers to employment by providing paid employment, accredited training, on-the-job buddying and personalised support. While applications are open to everyone, the program is particularly focused on supporting people under 24 years of age and over 45 years of age.
Barunga Village Chief Executive Officer, Elizabeth Carroll said the program would help strengthen the aged care workforce while creating opportunities for local people.
“Hospitality and housekeeping teams are essential to the day-to-day experience of our House Members and play an important role in delivering quality aged care services,” Elizabeth said.
“Hospitality Futures will help us grow the local workforce while providing participants with valuable hands-on experience, industry training and a pathway into a rewarding sector.”
The Hospitality Futures program will be led by Project Manager, Amber Clayton, who will work closely with participants, training providers and support services throughout the program.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this program will be seeing participants grow in confidence and discover what they are capable of achieving,” Amber said.
“We are committed to creating a supportive environment where people feel valued, encouraged and equipped to take the next step in their employment journey.”
Amber said the program would provide participants with practical skills and real workplace experience in a supportive environment.
“Participants won’t just gain training. They will become part of a team, build meaningful workplace relationships and develop skills that can support long-term employment opportunities.”
Successful participants may have the opportunity to transition into ongoing employment with Barunga Village following completion of their placement.
The program is being delivered in partnership with Sureway Skills Training, which will provide training, and Kate Barnes Psychology, which will deliver individual and group support to participants throughout their employment journey.
Applications are now open. For more information and to apply, visit www.barungavillage.com.au/career or contact Barunga Village on 08 8635 0500.
Workforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.