Released 01/08/2019
ACT young workers will be provided with more support and advice following the launch of Canberra's first Young Workers Advice Service.
The service, officially launched on Wednesday, will provide free and confidential advice to Canberra workers aged 25 years and under.
Through the new Advice Service, young workers will be able to obtain information on their workplace rights and entitlements from one centralised place.
Minister for Employment and Workplace Safety Rachel Stephen-Smith said the service will provide trusted advice and assistance to young workers using a range of face to face and online methods.
"Young workers will be able to access this important service in a way that best suits them, whether that's looking up information on the website at any hour of the day or night, or by contacting the coordinator to have a conversation in a safe and confidential environment," said Minister Stephen Smith.
In recognition of the fact that young workers are often more vulnerable in the workplace, the ACT Government invested $470,000 through the 2018-19 Budget to establish the service. Following a tender process, UnionsACT will deliver the Young Workers Advice Service.
"Canberra is a growing city, home to nearly 60,000 people aged between 15 and 24 years. Many of these young people are employed and we know they do not always receive the respect or workplace entitlements they deserve.
"We look forward to working with UnionsACT to further protect and empower young people from the beginning of their working lives," said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Services provided by the Young Workers Advice Service include:
- a dedicated website with education materials;
- a dedicated phone service;
- a full-time support coordinator; and
- pop-up outreach services at locations and events catered towards young people.
The Young Workers Advice Service is one of several initiatives of the ACT Government to improve the rights and safety of Canberra's workers.
For more information on the service and to access a range of educational resources, visit www.youngworkerscbr.org.au/advice/.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases
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