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Highlands Local Learning & Employment Network
School Leaver’s Manual
2014 - 2015
BALLARAT
Centre
Against
Sexual
Assault
ABN 39 089 584 391
Free and
confidential
Contact information:
5320 3933 (business hours)
AFTER HOURS CRISIS CARE
1800 806 292
VR1962566
Support for
Victim/Survivors
of past or recent
sexual assault
Who are
Young Carers?
Young Carers are people under 25 who provide regular and
sustained care to a family member with a disability,
mental health issue or are in need of support because
they are frail aged or have a chronic illness.
Sam helps care for
her dad who has
a disability
Michael cares for
his Mum who has a
mental illness
What do Young Carers do?
To find out more about the support available
for Young Carers, call Carers Victoria on 1800 242 636
or Carer Respite and Support Services on 1800 059 059.
VR1966720
No two caring roles are the same. Some Young Carers
provide physical care including bathing, dressing, cooking,
administering medication, whilst others may provide mental
and emotional support – being there to listen, supporting and
keeping an eye on someone.
Young Carers make a huge contribution to their families and
their communities.
It’s important Young Carers know they are not alone and
receive the support and information they need to help them
with their caring role.
Do you need advice?
If you are 16 years or older you can phone for a confidential
appointment to speak to a counsellor.
If you:
• want to chat about what’s going on in your life and
your relationships
• need advice about your relationship with a friend,
family member or others
• are feeling isolated or alone
then counselling could be for you.
We won’t tell you what to do or what decisions to make. Instead, we will guide
you to talk about your feelings, experience and options.
Ground Floor 1025 Sturt St. Ballarat
VICTORIA
VR1966548
Call Relationships Australia Victoria now on
5337 9222 or email ballarat@rav.org.au
Contents
Career Voyage
3
Community Agencies
31
Centrelink Services
4
Becoming Independent
35
Banking
Job Services Australia
5
Information for Students 9
with Disabilities
Medicare
Renting
Driving
Voting
McCallum DiVine
When You Are Employed 38
National Disability Coordinator
Disability Support at FEDUni
Awards, Conditions & Payslips
WDEA
Discrimination
Karden
Job Watch
Axis Employment
Paying Tax & a Tax File Number
Superannuation
Local Government
16
Centre For Multicultural Youth
Problems At Work
Unions
City of Ballarat
Helpful Websites
Golden Plains
Central Goldfields Shire
CYBA/Highlands Hotspot 42
Hepburn
Moorabool
Pyrenees
Australian Apprenticeships 21
Contents
Further Education
& Training
2
41
23
Federation University
Australian Catholic University
Ballarat Group Training
SkillsPlus
BRACE
Bacchus Marsh Community College
Work & Learning Centre
Worldskills Australia
Learn Local Centres
Volunteering
43
Notes
44
ABOUT CAREER VOYAGE
Designed as a tool to effectively and efficiently work with you, Career Voyage
delivers excellent results. This carefully designed and researched software helps
young people and adults make the best career decisions. In five easy steps you gain
invaluable insights and reports including a personal profile, specific job suggestions
(with accompanying occupational information), action planning and Resume/CV
writing.
Easy to use and suitable for all levels of ability, Career Voyage is highly reliable and
also offers the possibility to detach inconvenient occupations for people living with
disabilities.
Career Voyage takes you through a five stage process:
1. S e ct ion Cho ice
You choose the appropriate level of education and training by selecting one of five
levels. These levels range from minimum education and training to university graduate
level. The language used, items presented and jobs suggested have been thoroughly
researched to suit each level.
2. Oc cupational Interest Guide
An interactive questionnaire asks you about your occupational interests as they relate
to the world of work. An occupational interest profile is produced for you with clear,
specific and supportive graphical and text information. The practitioner can enter the
Adviser screen and check your results for problems needing attention. The Adviser
report outlines any particular concerns and suggests appropriate courses of action.
Printable interest profile reports for both you and the adviser are available..
3. J o b Sugge stions
You move on to a second interactive questionnaire involving a further eighty job
factors (including working conditions, health, talents, working hours, etc). Completion
of this section leads to twenty job suggestions, based on what you have said about
yourself. Each job suggestion has key information about that job.
Using software features such as ‘Pros and Cons’ of each job, ‘Similar Jobs’, ‘Other
Jobs’ (ie those not originally listed as suggestions), together with the flexibility to
change aspects of the results, you can interrogate the jobs database and develop
realistic career plans.
5. Re sum e Writing
You read and discover the important and necessary sections of successful resumes.
There are sample cover letters and resumes to download along with helpful tips and
information on what information to include, and more importantly what to leave out.
If you would like to book in a FREE session,
please contact Lisa Howlett on 5336 5018, 0419 512 027 or lisa@highlandsllen.org
Care er Voy age
4. Re sea rc h a nd A ction Planni n g
3
3
Centrelink Services
OPTIONS TO KEEP IN MIND
If you are under 21, have left school before completing Year 12, and you don’t plan to
do further study or training, you will be assessed for your eligibility to receive income
support from Centrelink. If you can’t find a job you will need to consider whether you’ll
be better off going back to school or doing some other study or training course.
Make sure you talk through your options with your parents, a teacher you relate to
well, your MIPs co-ordinator, school counsellor, careers advisor or youth service staff.
These contacts are still available even after you leave school.
CENTRELINK AT YOUR SERVICE
Centrelink is an agency which delivers a range of government services to the
Australian community including jobseekers, students, people who are sick or those
who have a disability. It also provides a range of payments to families.
Centrelink offers young people a ‘one stop shop’ for information and assistance
including income support and employment assistance, career information and job
search facilities.
CENTRELINK YOUTH & STUDENT SERVICES
Centrelink offers a range of services to meet the different needs of young people.
Whether you’re studying, training, doing an apprenticeship or looking for work,
Centrelink’s Youth and Student Services can help you.
Making decisions about your future can be daunting. There are so many things to
think about.
Do you want to return to school?
Do you want to do a course at TAFE or go to uni?
Are you ready for work?
 What sort of work do you want to do?
 How do you go about finding work?


Centr elink Se rv ice s

4
Whatever you decide to do after school, Centrelink can help you. Even if you don’t
know what you want to do, Centrelink can still help you to work through your options
and reach a decision.
Centrelink offers a weekly visiting service at Highlands LLEN Career Hub - Career
Information Centre at Ballarat Learning Exchange (BLX), 36 Camp Street, Ballarat.
If you would like advice in regards to income support, employment, education and
training options, or would like to find out more - To book an appointment please call
Centrelink Youth and Student Services on 13 2490 and request an appointment at
the Ballarat Learning Exchange (BLX).
YOUTH ALLOWANCE
Financial help exists for people aged 16 to 24 years who are studying full-time,
undertaking a full-time Australian Apprenticeship, training, looking for work or sick.
ELIGIBILITY BASICS
 16 to 21 years old and looking for full-time work or undertaking approved activities
 18 to 24 years old and studying full-time
 16 or 17 years old and have completed year 12 or equivalent; or undertaking full
time secondary study and need to live away from home in order to study; or are
considered independent for Youth Allowance, or
 16 to 24 years old and undertaking a full-time Australian Apprenticeship
ABSTUDY
Helps with costs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians who are studying
or undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship.
ELIGIBILITY BASICS
 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
 enrolled in an approved course or undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship
 not receiving any other government assistance to study or do an apprenticeship
or traineeship
SPECIALIST SERVICES
Centrelink and other agencies have professional social workers who can help you with
personal counselling and give you support through difficult times. They may be able to
help you find accommodation and assist with advice about budgeting. They can also
provide referrals to other services and community support programs.
CONCESSION CARDS
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Newstart Allowance
Abstudy
Parenting Payments
Sickness Allowance
Mobility Allowance

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Youth Allowance
Carer Allowance
Family Tax Benefits
Special Benefits
Exceptional Circumstance Payment
Contact Centrelink to confirm your eligibility or look online
IMPORTANT
Even if you don’t think that you are eligible for an income support payment it is
a good idea to register at Centrelink as you still may be eligible for a range of
services or able to get some extras, like a Health Care Card.
Centr elink Se rv ice s
Some payments entitle you to a Health Care Card. You are eligible for this if you are
a low income earner or you receive the following benefits:
5
5
CENTRELINK CONTACT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Tel ephon e :
132 490
Youth Allowance and most other queries for young people
and students
132 317
ABSTUDY
132 850
Employment Services
Website:
www.humanservices.gov.au
CENTRELINK CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRES
Ballarat
12 Albert Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
Highlands LLEN Career Hub
36 Camp St
Ballarat VIC 3350
Job Services Australia
Jobs Ser vic es Australia
From 1 July 2009, new employment services were introduced in Australia. These are
known as Job Services Australia.
6
Job Services Australia is a national network of organisations dedicated to helping
job seekers to find and sustain employment. Assistance provided by Job Services
Australia includes the following:

Gathering vacancies from employers and matching the skills and experience of
job seekers to job vacancies

New Enterprise Incentive Scheme which helps job seekers with ideas for a viable
business to establish their own business.

The Department of Employment contracts organisations to provide Job Services
Australia assistance. Not all Job Services Australia members provide the full range of
services outlined above.
JOB SERVICES AUSTRALIA
Job Services Australia organisations are government agencies available to help you
find work.
Tracy The Placement People
22 Camp Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 3212
www.tracys.com.au
Western District Employment
Access
219 Mair Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5331 6566
www.wdea.org.au
CVGT
118 Armstrong Street South
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5336 7000
f: 5336 7070
www.cvgt.com.au
BRACE
602 Urquhart Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5337 9000
www.brace.com.au
MatchWorks
21-23 Gell Street
Bacchus Marsh VIC 3340
t: 5367 3611
www.matchworks.com.au
Centacare Employment
PO Box 2537, Bakery Hill 3354
p: 5337 8950
f: 5332 4465
e: centacare@centacareballarat.org.au
www.centacareemployment.org.au
Sureway Employment
and Training
Office 1, Floor 1, 41/43 Mundy Street
Bendigo VIC 3550
t: 5445 2400
www.sureway.com.au
Bendigo Access Employment
29-33 Mundy Street
Bendigo VIC 3550
t: 5445 9800
f: 5441 7088
www.accessemployment.com.au
Job Serv ice s Australia
Interact Employment
and Training
205 Dana Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5327 1900 f: 5327 1999
e: ballarat@interactaustralia.com.au
www.interactaust.com.au
7
7
Job Serv ice s Australia
EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES
8
People @ Work
32 Doveton Street North
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 5730
e: ballarat@peopleatwork.com.au
www.peopleatwork.com.au
MOJO Consulting
PO Box 146W
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 0407394406
e: info@mojoconsulting.com.au
www.mojoconsulting.com.au
JK Personnel
22 Armstrong Street North
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5332 9955
e: jk@jkpersonnel.com.au
www.jkpersonnel.com.au
Adecco Employment
Level 16, 28 Freshwater Place
Southbank, VIC 3006
t: 9954 2400
f: 9954 2199
www.adecco.com.au
BGT Employment
Lot 1/14 Hill Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 1707
f: 5333 3922
e: admin@bgt.org.au
www.bgt.org.au
Pinnacle Hospitality
& Travel People
390 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3004
t: 8624 1777
e: melb@pinnaclepeople.com.au
www.pinnaclepeople.com.au
Skilled
7 Lydiard St Sth
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 2200
www.skilled.com.au
Hays Recruitment
16/240 Pakington Street
Geelong West VIC 3218
t: 5226 8000
f: 5222 7280
e: os.geelong@hays.com.au
www.hays.com.au
Online Personnel
Recruitment House
21 Main Rd
Bakery Hill VIC 3354
t: 9915 8600
Drake International
Suite 1, 38A Williamson Street
Bendigo VIC 3550
t: 5441 6655
e: bendigo@au.drakeintl.com
au.drakeintl.com
Bayside Group
Level 5, 7 Bowen Crescent
Melbourne VIC 3004
t: 9864 6000
www.baysidegroup.com.au
Regan Consulting
384 Church Street
Richmond VIC 3121
t: 9428 9600
McCallum
McCallum’s aim is to provide a responsive range of programs and services to people
with a disability to maximise opportunities in community life.
McCallum will help you develop a plan that will address individual needs, skill
development and personal goals in:
 Pre-vocational job skills
 Access to further education
 Participate in personal development and communication skills
 Access a wide range of recreation & leisure options
 Living skills development
 Develop and support community options
McCallum
29 Learmonth St, Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5334 1921 f: 5334 1925
e: info@mccallum.org.au
www.mccallum.org.au
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
Who can I contact?
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9
W HA T IS D I VI N E ?
DiVine is an online community. It is for and by people with a disability. The website
is published by the Victorian Government. DiVine covers a wide range of topics.
You can send us your own articles. You can also leave comments. DiVine has been
designed to meel the highest standards in accessibility.
DiVine is an online community for and by people with a disability.
The website is published by Ihe Victorian Government’s Office for Disability in the
Department of Human Services
I n c lusive community
DiVine aims to inform, engage and entertain. It is a vibrant, inclusive community that
encourages participation. We can all learn from each other. And we can have fun, too.
The website provides the opportunity for you to share your passion and unique
perspective with thousands of other Victorians.
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
Range of interests
10
One-in-five Victorians has a disability. The wide range of topics covered on DiVine
reflects the wide range of in terests of people with a disability.
You are encouraged to join in the discussion and submit your own articles for
publication on the site. We would also love to hear any ideas you might have for
DiVine.
A cc e s s ibility
The DiVine website has been designed to meet the Level AAA standard of the
W3C (World-Wide Web Consortium) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Version
1.0 See DiVine’s Accessibility (http://www.divine.vic.gov.au/footer/intemal-links/
accessibility) page for more Information.
How to us e DiVine
DiVine has created a guide to help you use DiVine. It is called How do I use the
DiVine website (http://www.divine.vic.gov.au/footer/internal-links/how-do-l-use-thedivine-website) ?
Who can I contact?
DiVine
t: 9096 0574
e: ofd@dhs.vic.gov.au
www.divine.vic.gov.au
info found at: www.divine.vic.gov.au/main-site/what-is-divine
NATIONAL DISABILITY COORDINATOR
The National Disability Coordination Program (NDCO) was established by the
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations in late 2007.
The aim of this program is simple. It is to enhance access to further education, training
and employment for people with a disability. The program targets school leavers
through to mature age students with a disability.
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Development and distribution of relevant information.
Facilitation transition from school to further education, training and/or employment.
Facilitation of transition from further education and/or training to employment.
Facilitating the coordination of services and the sharing of information across
the region.
Provision of advice and possible solutions concerning the needs of people
with a disability to the Australian Government in relation to further education
and employment.
All over the world and in Australia, people with disability are achieving amazing things.
The NDCO program aims to ensure MORE people with a disability achieve their full
potential.
Who can I contact?
NDCO:
Building F - Room F216
Pam Anderson
National Disability Coordination Officer Western Region of Victoria
m: 0418 108 555
e: pam.anderson@skillplus.com.au
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
The NDCO program does this through the:
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D ISABILIT Y L I AI SO N U N IT A T F E D E R A T IO N U N IV E R SITY
AUS TRA L I A ( F E D U N I )
If you have a medical condition, mental health condition or disability that may impact
on your ability to access the University or participate in coursework, the Disability
Liaison Unit at FedUni may be able to help.
Disability Liaison Officers work with FedUni students and prospective students with
disabilities to tailor services to individual needs. The range of support services can
include:
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Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities

12
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Assistance with application and/or enrolment procedures.
Orientation to campus.
Assistance with access requirements.
Provision of adaptive study materials and equipment.
Provision of direct learning support.
Negotiating alternative learning and assessment tasks.
Provision of information and support to other University staff.
Negotiating alternative arrangements for examinations.
Information about and referral to community support services.
Information and advocacy about disability discrimination and equal opportunity.
For general enquiries or to make an appointment, unless you are an apprentice or
trainee, please phone Ballarat & Wimmera Campuses (03) 5327 9470, Gippsland
Campus (03) 5122 6425 or send an email to disability@federation.edu.au.
Apprentices and trainee students, all campuses, please contact:
Andrea Iles on tel: (03) 5327 8323 or email: disability@federation.edu.au
Information for Students with Disabilities
WESTERN DISTRICT EMPLOYMENT ACCESS
Western District Employment Access is a provider of Disability Employment Services
(DES) in Ballarat and Ararat. Disability Employment Services helps people with a
disability get ready to look for a job, find and keep a job in the open labour market.
Pre-employment services include:

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Regular one-on-one contact with a Case Manager experienced in Disability Services
Support to prepare an application letter and resume
Interview skills and techniques training
Access to training and skills preparation programs
Practical support prior to employment.
Job Search Assistance includes:
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Assistance with Internet-based job searching
Approaching and negotiating with potential employers on behalf of clients
Negotiating wage subsidy assistance to employers.
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Regular on-the-job support to the client and employer.
Workplace Modifications – a scheme offering financial assistance to buy or hire
specific equipment in the workplace to assist workers with disabilities.
Who can I contact?
Western District Employment Access
219 Mair Street,
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5331 6566
f: 5331 6157
ballarat@wdea.org.au
www.wdea.org.au
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
Job Placement and support includes:
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KARDEN DISABILITY SUPPORT FOUNDATION
KDSF provide services in:
 Direct Support
 Service Co-ordination
 Person Centred Planning
They work with the community and help them understand that a person with a
disability is primarily that – A person first.
Services Karden offers;
Individualised flexible Support Services enables people to access their community
or receive the support they require at home, or both!
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
Service Coordination provides support to help you to access appropriate services
that meet your needs and help make your life more fulfilling.
14
Person Centred Planning is an important key to providing great services and
involves continual listening and learning. Karden focuses on what is important to
you and in the future and act on this in combination with your family, friends and
other support networks. Essential Life Planning assists to identify and separate
what is important to you, from what others see as important for you.
Picket Fences offers you the opportunity to express your interest in living
independently within your local community. The program also offers the prospect
of sharing household costs and supports with the people you choose to live
with. Picket Fences is a proactive way to introduce people with similar interests
and support needs with other people who are actively seeking alternative
accommodation.
Who can I contact?
35 Mair Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5331 7924
f: 5338 7992
www.karden.org.au
AXIS Employment is a not for profit, community-based disability employment service
which provides employment solutions to job seekers and employers in regional
Victoria and South Australia.
For over 20 years AXIS Employment has placed job seekers with barriers to
employment into meaningful, sustainable employment. Axis builds and maintains
excellent relationships with employers, with an emphasis on finding the right person
for the right job and by providing superior post placement support.
AXIS Employment provides support via the Disability Employment Service for
eligible schoolleavers wishing to make the transition from school to employment as
smooth as possible. If you are in your last 12 months of school and have a disability
or health condition you may be eligible to register with AXIS Employment and
receive support from an Employment Consultant while still at school.
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Career guidance and planning
A comprehensive employment plan that will focus on your abilities, interests and
aspirations.
Professional assistance to find a suitable job, including tailored marketing to
employers
Support to prepare resumes and application letters
Referral; and support to access training opportunities
On the job support
Ongoing support for the duration of your employment specific equipment in the
workplace to assist workers with disabilities.
Information fo r Stud ents w ith Disabilities
What will Axis Employment provide?
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CENTRE FOR MULTICULTURAL YOUTH (CMY)
CMY’s purpose is to ensure that young people have every opportunity to succeed
in Australia. Through a combination of specialist support services, training and
consultancy, knowledge sharing and advocacy, they work to remove the barriers
young people face as they make Australia their home.
The young people CMY works with say they prefer not to be defined by labels. It is
important however, to explain that most of the work focuses on young people from
migrant and refugee backgrounds, 12-25 years old, with a particular priority on those
who are newly-arrived to Australia.
Young people can encounter significant barriers as they try to settle in Australia.
Alongside the challenges of growing up, they are figuring out how things are done
and adjusting to unfamiliar cultural, academic and social expectations.
Their sense of wellbeing and belonging can be considerably diminished by factors
such as racism and discrimination. These barriers are often compounded and
magnified by services and systems that are ill-quipped to provide the specialist
support needed.
Local Go vern men t Youth Services
Despite these complex issues, CMY knows that young people have the enterprise,
resilience and optimism to contribute to the continued prosperity of Australia. By
engaging you as experts in your own lives and focusing on your strengths, you can
be empowered to adapt and thrive.
16
Who can I contact?
Ballarat Office
Unit 12, 707 Lydiard Street South
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5317 7172
w: http://cmy.net.au
CITY OF BALLARAT
Byou provides young people with the opportunity to participate in a variety of groups
that run events and activities. The groups are a great way to meet new people,
learn about local government, have fun, learn new skills and to get involved in your
community. The following are provided:
Programs/Activities:
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Youth Council
Zaque
FreeZa-Sonika
BYGA
Bordem Breakers
Youth Service Register
NXUS
Who can I contact?
GOLDEN PLAINS
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Golden Plains Shire – providing a range of services for young people
living in the area
FreeZA – Music, events for youth across the Shire – free transport provided
Youth Voice – Youth advocacy
Group of 7-10 young people who develop local projects and act as leaders for
their community. Contact youthvoice@gplains.vic.gov.au
National Youth Week – Events and celebrations
Writers’ Festival, Youth activities/events
Youth Moves – Free transport during school holidays
Referral, advocacy and information on youth services/groups
Who can I contact?
Youth Services Team at Golden Plains Shire
PO Box 111, Bannockburn VIC 3331
t: 5220 7111
e: enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au
www.goldenplains.vic.gov.au
Local Go vern men t Youth Services
City of Ballarat Youth Services
Library & Community Hub, Doveton Street, North Ballarat
t: 5320 5140
w: www.youthservicesballarat.com.au
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CENTRAL GOLDFIELDS SHIRE
Central Goldfields Shire Council provides young people and their families with the
opportunity to try new things, meet new people, and actively participate in a variety
of programs, activities and events within the community.
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Engage Youth Space
Youth Website
Youth Committees
FReeZA - drug, alcohol and smoke free events for young people 12-25yrs old.
Teenage Holiday Program has more activity-based programs run from
the youth space with only a few trips away. Activities such as Fashion Week,
comic book creation and art projects.
For more information about any of the above services, contact Penny on the
details below.
Local Go vern men t Youth Services
Who can I contact?
18
Penny Wilson
Youth Engage/Freeza Worker
Central Goldfields Shire Council
PO Box 22
12-22 Nolan Street
Maryborough, VIC 3465
t: 5461 0614
f: 5461 0666
m: 0417 600 148
e: pennyw@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au
w: www.allforyouth.com.au
HEPBURN SHIRE
H OW WE WO RK WITH YOUNG P E OPL E
Cl o s e to H ome Project
The Close to Home Project supports the development of youth groups in community
spaces across the Hepburn Shire. Funded by the Victorian Government, Close to
Home works with locals in Trentham. Oaylesford. Creswick and Clunes to bring
community adults and young people together for youth events and activities.
Supporting youth groups is a safe and effective way for communities to ensure
they have great relationships with young people, provides pathways for youth
into community groups and supports young people to become happy and healthy
adults.
Community orgainsations or individuals interested in volunteering at or supporting
thief local youth group can contact the group directly in thier community:
Trentham Youth Group, Monday nights at Trentham Neighbourhood Centre-5424 1354
Oaylesford Youth Group. monthly events throughDaylesford Community Church-5348 3222
Creswick Youth Group. Thursday Nights at Creswick Neighbourhood Centre-5345 2356
Clunes Youth Group. Saturday mornings at Clunes Library-5345 3359
H e p b urn F R e e ZA
YOUth FilmFest runs Twilight Cinemas in Creswick, Clunes, Daylesford and Trentham
each December. If you are a person aged 12-25 living in these communities and would
like to volunteer to help plan and run these events please contact the Youth development
Co-ordinator.
DreamFest is an annual music festival featuring local and regional bands as well as a range
of other activities and stalls. Each year a young person is employed to be the Event Manager
for DreamFest, recruiting a committee of young people to plan and organise the whole
DreamFest Event. To get involved in DreamFest please contact the Youth Development
Co-ordinator.
H e p b urn L2P
L2P is a partnership project between Hepburn Shire Council Transport Connections
Program, Hepburn Health Services and Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre to assist
disadvantaged young people to get their 120 hours driving experience.
L2P provides young people with driving lessons and matches them with community
volunteers who have trained to be come driving mentors for young people.
To find out more about L2P contact the L2P Co-ordinator al Hepburn Hepburn Health Service
on (03) 5321 6556.
Local Go vern men t Youth Services
Hepburn FReeZA runs over summer - with local events YOUth Film Fest and DreamFest
designed and delivered by young people each year.
19
19
MOORABOOL
The Youth Services unit works closely with all providers that operate in the Moorabool
Shire. Moorabool Council Youth Services is committed to delivering a range of youth
engagement / youth led programs in partnership with young people, schools, agencies
and sporting and community groups in the shire. These programs aim to increase
young people’s connection to the community and family, promote leadership and
increase wellbeing.
Programs change from time to time in response to youth needs, but include:






The Youth Action Group
ACTIV8 - a mental health program
FReeZA
Youth Awards
Youth Week Activities
Pop-up Youth Events
Because programs do change from time to time, contact Moorabool Shire Council Youth Services on 5336 7100 or find “Moorabool Youth Services” on Facebook for
more information
Who can I contact?
Local Go vern men t Youth Services
Moorabool Youth Services
John Perham
Darley Community Hub
182 Halletts Way, Darley VIC 3340
t: 5366 7100
20
PYRENEES
Pyrenees Shire Youth Services operates within the Community Development area
of Council. Youth focused activities take place throughout the shire. Biannual Youth
Forums provide a means for young people to express their ideas, issues and plans.
Young people are encouraged to participate through online Pyrenees Youth Network
forums and in local and shire wide activities. Programs and activities may be run
in conjunction with partner agencies and include the following:






FReeZA
Discos
Youth Week Activities
BMX Workshops
Youth Forums
Arts & Culture
Who can I contact?
Pyrenees Shire
t: 5349 1100
Australian
Apprenticeships
APPRENTICESHIPS AND TRAINEESHIPS
An apprenticeship is a training contract between an employer and an employee in
which the employer provides training and the apprentice learns the occupation/trade.
Apprenticeships include both traditional trade apprenticeships and traineeships.
Apprentices must be at least 15 years of age and may already hold a qualification.
There is no maximum age.Training can be developed to suit specific needs of the
business. It may be totally on-the-job or a combination of on and off-the-job programs.
Apprentices can be employed on a full time or a part time basis. There are over 500
apprenticeships and traineeships in all types of industries. When all competencies
have been achieved, the apprentice gains a nationally recognised qualification.
Apprentices/Trainees may be eligible for living away from home allowances and Trade
Support Loans.
Tuition fees and charges – assistance is often given to the apprentice/trainees.
Concessions and exemptions are available depending on eligibility.
AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIPS AT SCHOOL
Many schools now offer the option for students to start an Australian Apprenticeship
while at school. Contact your school Careers Advisor or your local Australian
Apprenticeship Centre, to find out if this is possible in your area.
Who can I contact?
www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
www.education.vic.gov.au/training/learners/apprentices
Austr alian App rentice ships
Australian School Based Apprenticeships enable you to start a vocational qualification
while continuing school studies.
21
21
AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP CENTRES (AAC)
For advice on Australian Apprenticeships contact:
WorkCo
110 Lydiard Street North
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5322 4500
Central Victoria Group Training (AUSNAC)
118 Armstrong Street South
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5336 7000
VECCI
305a Dana Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5327 7190
e: ballarat@vecci.org.au
www.vecci.org.au
Austr alian App rentice ships
Apprenticeships
and
Traineeships
22
MEGT - Australia Pty Ltd
95 Mair St East
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 8388
e: aacinfo@megt.com.au
www.megt.com.au
Skills Victoria
Apprenticeship Field Officers
t: 5327 8266
e: j.reid@federation.edu.au
Employer
+
Employee
+
Registered Training
Organisation (RTO)
Training Contract
Australian
Apprenticeship Centre
(AAC)
Further Education & Training
FEDERATION UNIVERSITY AUSTRALIA (FEDUni)
TAFE AND DEGREE PROGRAMS
FEDUni offers a range of courses for you. From Business to Nursing, Hospitality
to Horticulture and Psychology to Performing Arts, FedUni has a perfect course to
suit your needs. The relaxed and friendly environment of the University’s 6 regional
campuses enables your interests, talents and goals to be captured, nurtured and
developed.
MT HELEN CAMPUS
The Mt Helen campus is set on 110 hectares of natural bushland and offers
both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Thousands of students study
a variety of specialised areas in Science and Engineering, Nursing, Business,
Education, Behavioural Social Sciences and Humanities, Information Technology and
Mathematical Sciences, and Human Movement and Sport Sciences.
GIPPSLAND CAMPUS
The Gippsland Campus is located in the township of Churchhill in the foothills of
the Strzelecki Ranges. Study is available on the Arts, Art and Design, Business,
Education, Engineering, IT, Nursing, Midwifery and Science, with many online learning
options also available.
Located in the centre of Ballarat, the SMB Campus provides modern teaching facilities
within an attractive, historic environment dating back to 1870. In addition, other TAFE
facilities within Ballarat include the Primary Industries Training Centre, the Building
and Construction Training Centre in Grant Street, the Federation College based in
Grant Street and the Ballarat Horticulture Centre. The SMB Campus (plus Mt Helen
campus) provides TAFE programs in Leadership and Management, Hospitality and
Tourism, Information Technology, Primary Industries, Children’s Services, Community
Services, Humanities and Further Education, Health and Personal Services, Food and
Allied Sciences, Building and Construction and Engineering and Automotive.
Further Tra ining
SMB CAMPUS
23
23
CAMP STREET CAMPUS
Located in the heart of Ballarat, the Camp Street Campus is the home of the Arts
Academy and the majority of the university’s Visual and Performing Arts students, staff
and programs. Camp Street Campus is an integration of both old and new buildings
which has a dynamic and vibrant arts and cultural environment. Programs are offered
in the performing arts and visual arts areas.
FedUni also has a number of campuses outside Ballarat. For information about
application procedures, course outlines, campus tours or any course related enquiries
please contact Student Recruitment on the Course Infoline.
Who can I contact?
University & Vocational Education
t: 1800 633 864 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
e: info@federation.edu.au
Australian Catholic U niversity (ACU National)
Further Tra ining
Australian Catholic University is a national and publicly owned university with
campuses in QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC and SA. Its two campuses in Victoria are
situated in Melbourne and Ballarat. ACU is a specialist university offering first-class
undergraduate programs in education, arts, business, law, health, theology and
philosophy.
ACU produces professional and highly skilled graduates who are ready to enter
the workplace, graduates are committed to building and maintaining strong links
with industry and their community. Many ACU graduates undertake professional
experience during their studies and a number secure excellent employment
opportunities before graduating.
The ACU Ballarat campus offers courses in nursing, nursing/paramedicine, primary
teaching, early childhood education and theology.
24
Who can I contact?
Australian Catholic University
Ph: 1300 ASK ACU (1300 275 228)
e: futurestudents@acu.edu.au
www.acu.edu.au
*Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
Ballarat Group Training
BGT is a Group Training company which places apprentices and trainees with a range
of small and large host businesses who provide on the job training.
Trainees and apprentices are in demand in a wide variety of industries, such as
retail, hospitality, building, manufacturing, electrical, agricultural and many more.
By providing a solution to business, BGT manages all of the costs associated with
managing an apprentice or trainee including recruitment, training, supervision, payroll,
industrial relations, OH&S, recognition and government incentives.
Each apprentice and trainee is assigned a field officer who individually mentors,
supports and monitors them throughout their time in the apprenticeship or traineeship.
BGT provide flexibility so the business is not locked into a long term training contract
and apprentices and trainees can be changed and moved to suit business needs.
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice or trainee, register your interest by
completing a registration form at www.bgt.org.au You can list your areas of interest
and BGT will contact you for an interview with one of their field officers. They will
discuss your chosen area of interest and likely opportunities suggesting any pretraining courses available which may assist you to prepare for an apprenticeship or
traineeship.
BGT is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) that provides a wide range of
training and assessment services. Trainers and assessors are fully qualified and have
industry experience in their fields of expertise, at the same time delivering quality
training based on sound knowledge and a personalised approach.
BGT provides training in the following:




Manufacturing
Business
Community Services
Aged Care
Retail
Hospitality
 Transport & Logistics
 Training and Assessment


Responsible service of alcohol
Welding
 Panel beating




Food safety
Engineering
Who can I contact?
BGT
14 Hill Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
t: 5333 1707
e: admin@bgt.org.au
www.bgt.org.au
27
Further Tra ining
Short courses are also offered in the following:
25
25
SKILLSPLUS
SkillsPlus is a not-for-profit organisation that provides individualised, client focused
services in employment, training and education.
If you have finished school and you’re looking for work, SkillsPlus can help you to
make the first step.
The experienced team at SkillsPlus is able to provide tailored services matched to
your individual needs.
The team at SkillsPlus can give you advice and help with:







Work Experience
Work Trials
Volunteer Work
Writing a resume
Access to training
How to look for a job; and
What jobs are available in your local area
For eligible individuals, SkillsPlus can also fund the essentials to get you started at
work i.e. Clothing and Licenses.
With a focus on developing your skills for the future, SkillsPlus is dedicated to making
sure you get the opportunities you need now.
Further Tra ining
Who can I contact?
26
SkillsPlus
BRACE
602
2
East
Urquhart
Street South,
Street
BALLARAT
Ballarat
VIC Vic
3350
3350
t: 1800
ph:
03 5329
101 808
1600
e:03
f:
brace@brace.com.au
5333 2481
www.brace.vic.edu.au
e:
ballarat@skillsplus.com.au
BRACE
BRACE Education & Training is a provider of a range of accredited and nonaccredited training, Skills for Education and Employment and the New Enterprise
Incentive Scheme (NElS) programs, supporting individuals to engage in learning that
develops the knowledge and skills that they need to secure employment, undertake
further study or increase their participation in the community.
BRACE Education and Training offer a variety of on-campus nationally recognised
training courses including;









Administration/Business
Aged Care
Home and Community Care
Health Services Assistance
Early Childhood Education and Care
Disability Services
Education Support
Small Business Management
Training and Assessment
In addition to accredited training courses, BRACE also offers short industry courses
including;









Responsible Service of Alcohol
Responsible Service of Gambling (RSG)
Food Safety for both handlers and supervisors
Coffee making
First Aid, CPR and Anaphylaxis Management
Construction Induction Card
Medical Terminology
Microsoft software courses from introductory to advanced level
MYOB courses from introductory to advanced level
Who can I contact?
BRACE
BRACE
602
602 Urquhart
Urquhart Street
Street
Ballarat
VIC Vic
3350
BALLARAT
3350
PO
Box
626W
t: 1800 101 808
Ballarat
West
3350
e: brace@brace.com.au
t:
03 5337 9000
www.brace.vic.edu.au
f: 03 5332 8087
e: ballarat@brace.com.au
www.brace.com.au
Further Tra ining
BRACE is also a provider of the New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NElS), a
Commonwealth Government funded initiative which assists eligible unemployed
people to set up their own commercially-viable small business by providing accredited
small business training, business advice and mentoring for eligible job seekers, as
well as ongoing income support for up to 39 weeks.
27
27
BACCHUS MARSH COMMUNITY COLLEGE - THE LAURELS
Is a registered training provider and provides a broad range of accredited
and non-accredited learning opportunities, including:
Business, Retail, Children’s Services, Hospitality, Horticulture, Community
Services, Information Technology, Floristry and Training and Assessment
 Certificates in General Education for Adults (English & Maths), Responsible
Service of Alcohol.
 They also provide individual assistant to develop skills for entry to the forces.

Who can I contact?
Further Tra ining
Bacchus Marsh Community College - The Laurels
229 Main Street
Bacchus Marsh VIC 3340
t: 5367 1061
www.thelaurels.org.au
28
WORK & LEARNING CENTRES
N e e d H elp Finding Work?
Next Steps Work and Learning Centre is a program designed to support people
in receipt of Centrelink benefits into work and training. This is a free service
and it is voluntary to join.
Working in collaboration with Job Service Agencies, training providers and local
business, Next Steps offers:







Job search support
Access to training
Work experience support
Interview skills and resume preparation
Access and connection to local employers
Referrals to related support services
Links to traineeships and apprenticeships
Next Steps Work and Learning Centre is a Brotherhood of St Laurence initiative,
delivered in partnership with the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre and Highlands
LLEN, funded by the Victorian Government.
Drop in or call Next Steps today to make an appointment with their friendly staff
Who can I contact?
Further Tra ining
Next Steps Work and Learning Centre Ballarat
Ballarat South Community Hub
Tuppen Drive
Sebastopol VIC 3350
t: 5329 3275
29
29
WorldSkills Australia is the Nation’s premier showcase of youth skill and trade
excellence for apprentices and trainees.
WorldSkills Australia Inc. is a dynamic, non-for profit organisation that has been
actively celebrating and promoting the standards and status of vocational training and
skills excellence for over 25 years.
WorldSkills Australia competitions operate on a two year cycle. Regional competitions
flow into the National competition. National competition winners may become
members of the international team (the Skillaroos) and represent Australia at the
WorldSkills International Competition –The Skill Olympics
74 World-wide Member Countries, where Australia has consistently ranked in the top
10 in the World. Perth will showcase Australia’s best and most talented young people
across over 50 different trade and skills categories, including VET in Schools.
The medallists of the WorldSkills National Competition are rightfully titled AUSTRALIA’S
BEST in their vocational training and educational field.
If you would like further information, please contact the Ballarat/Wimmera Regional
Contact Lisa Howlett.
Who can I contact?
Further Tra ining
Lisa Howlett
Level 1, 36 Camp Street
Ballarat VIC 3350
m: 0419 512 027
e: lisa@highlandsllen.org
30
LEARN LOCAL ORGANISATIONS
Learn Local Organisations run a variety of training. No matter what level of
education or what training you have had in the past, Learn Local can help.
Community organisations in the Learn Local network offer education and training
with a focus on individual needs and tailoring programs for the learner.
There are over 300 government-registered Learn Local organisations in Victoria
offering a large choice of adult community education and training programs statewide. There are 23 Learn Local Organisations in the Grampians region. Courses
range from basic computer skills to Certificates (including VET and VCE/VCAL) and
Diplomas in all types of ares such as business, community services and trades.
The range of courses include:




Courses
Courses
Courses
Courses
to help you start work, go back to work, change jobs or keep your job
that provide you with nationally recognised vocational qualifications
to help you get back into learning
for your own interest and personal development.
Who can I contact?
Community Ag encie s
DEECD - Regional Office
5a Little Ryrie Street
Geelong VIC 3220
t: 5225 1063
f: 5225 1099
31
31
Community Ag encie s
LEARN LOCAL ORGANISATIONS
32
Bacchus Marsh Community College
229 Main Road, Bacchus Marsh 3340
Ph: 03 5367 1061
Fax: 03 5367 6452
info@thelaurels.org.au
Daylesford Neighbourhood Centre
13 Camp Street, Daylesford 3460
Ph: 03 5348 3569
Fax: 03 5348 3873
info@dnc.com.au
Ballan & District Community Health
143 Inglis Street, Ballan 3342
Ph: 03 5368 1934
Fax: 03 5368 1 934
info@bchvic.org
Futures Community College
- Finding Futures
998 Norman Street, Ballarat 3350
Ph: 5339 9551
info@findingfutures.com.au
Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre
Ballart South Community Hub
Tuppen Drive, Sebastopol 3350
Ph: 03 5329 3273
admin@ballaratnc.org.au
Haddon Community Learning Centre
396 Sago Hill Road, Haddon 3351
Ph: 03 5342 7050
Fax: 03 5342 7013
coordinator@hchouse.orq
Beaufort Community House
& Learning Centre
72 Neill Street, Beaufort 3373
Ph: 03 5349 1184
Fax: 03 5349 2933
bchlc@netconnect.com.au
Meredith Community Centre
4 Russell Street MEREDITH 3333
Ph: 03 5286 1348
learnlocal@mereditycommunitycentre.com.au
BRACE Education Training
& Employment
602 Urquhart Street, Ballarat 3350
Ph: 03 5333 3700
Fax: 03 5332 8087
ballarat@brace.com.au
Darley Neighbourhood House
33 Jonathan Drive, Darley 3340
Ph: 03 5367 4390
Fax: 03 5367 7597
darleynhlc@westnet.com.au
Skills Plus
602 Urquhart Street BALLARAT 3350
Ph: 03 5337 9000
Fax: 03 5332 8087
ballarat@brace.com.au
Wendouree Neighbourhood House
14 Violet Grove, Wendouree 3354
Ph: 03 5339 5069
Fax: 03 5339 9185
Community Agencies
(Most of these services are provided for free, unless otherwise stated)
DRUG & ALCOHOL SERVICES




Ballarat Community Health Drug & Alcohol Services - t: 5338 4500
Uniting Care Outreach Drug & Alcohol Programs - t: 5332 1286
Drug information - www.druginfo.adf.org.au
Headspace - www.headspace.org.au/ballarat - t: 5304 4777
EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION - HOUSING





Lisa Lodge Housing Program (Single Women & Youth) - t: 5331 3838
Salvation Army - Karinya (Mothers with Children) - t: 5329 1100
Uniting Care Outreach (Families with Children) - t: 5332 1286
Peplow House (Single Men 18 and over) - t: 5332 4466
Ballarat Community Health Centre - Youth Housing - t: 5338 4500
FOOD PARCELS





Uniting Care Outreach - t: 5332 1286
(need to ring at 9.00am in the morning and arrange an appointment
for a food parcel that day)
St. Vincent de Paul - 5348 3862
(they will arrange a worker to come and see you and assess your needs)
Breezeway Meals in Dana Street - t: 5332 1286
(through Uniting Care Outreach - a hot midday meal is served daily between
12.00 noon - 2.00 pm to people who are homeless or living in accommodation
without cooking facilities. Need to show your Health Care Card
Neighbours Place Inc Bacchus Marsh - t: 5367 6222
Current ID required (Moorabool Shire residents only, open Monday, Wednesday
and Friday 9.30am - 3.00pm)
Salvation Army - t: 5337 0600 (ring to make an appointment)
ANGER MANAGEMENT

Child & Family Services Men’s Behaviour Change Program - t: 5337 3333

Central Highlands Community Legal Centre - t: 5331 5999
FINANCIAL ADVICE

Child & Family Services - t: 5337 3333
SEXUAL HEALTH SERVICES


Sexual Health Clinic - t: 5338 4541
(open to all ages for Sexual Health & Family Planning)
Headspace - www.headspace.org.au/ballarat - t: 5304 4777
RELATIONSHIP COUNSELLING

Relationships Australia - t: 5337 9222 or 1300 364 277*
Community Ag encie s
LEGAL SERVICES
*Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
(Fees are charged, but they are negotiated based on the client’s income)
33
33
GAMBLING

Gamblers Help - t: 1800 858 858*
www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
*Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
VIOLENCE & SEXUAL ASSAULT

Centre Against Sexual Assault (CASA) - t: 5320 3933 or 1800 806 292* (ah)
*Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles




Child & Family Services Family Violence Prevention Program - t: 5337 3333
Women’s Resource Information & Support Centre - Domestic Violence
Outreach Centre (WRISC) - t: 5333 3666
Child Protection - t: 5333 6530
Child Protection Notification - t: 5333 6530
FAMILY & GENERAL COUNSELLING










Uniting Church Outreach Centre - t: 5332 1286
Ballarat Community Health Centre: youth housing, sexual health, counselling
and support - t: 5338 4500
Daylesford Community Health Centre - t: 5321 6560
Child & Family Services - t: 5337 3333
Bacchus Marsh Child and Family Services - t: 5367 9900
Centrecare - t: 5337 8999
Sebastopol Community Health Centre - t: 5338 4500
Wendouree Community Health Centre - t: 5338 4500
Creswick Community Health Centre - t: 5345 8165
Counselling online - www.kidshelp.com.au
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
There are a large number of private psychiatrists and psychologists in the yellow
pages under Medical Practitioners, fees will apply, (however a large proportion of the
costs can be claimed through Medicare). You are encouraged to visit your regular
doctor / GP for advice.
 Headspace - www.headspace.org.au/ballarat - t: 5304 4777
 Child & Adolescence Mental Health Services (CAMHS) - t: 5320 4100
 Grampians Psychiatric Services - t: 1300 661 323* (24hr)
*Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
Community Ag encie s

www.beyondblue.org.au
OTHER SERVICES







Ballarat & District Aboriginal Co-op - t: 5331 5344
Lifeline - t: 131 114
Kids helpline - t: 1800 551 800 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
Ballarat Taxis - t: 131 008
Davis Buslines - t: 5331 7777
Emergency Department - Ballarat Health Services - t: 5320 4000
Emergency Department - St John of God Health Care - t: 5320 2126
(Ask for emergency department)
EMERGENCY - 000
POLICE, AMBULANCE, FIRE
34
Becoming Independent
BANKING
Ta k i n g control of your money
At some stage you will need to consider setting up a bank account. The bank should
be able to help you take control of your money and help you to save.
Th i n g s to re member:




Know your rights
It’s your money
Don’t get sucked in, and
Ask questions - don’t be embarrassed
If you’re getting any sort of income, whether a wage or allowance, you need to have
a bank account. Most work places and Centrelink forward your wages directly into
your account.
There are many different types of bank accounts and many different banks, credit
unions and building societies. But there is an easy way to choose your account,
there are two main types of accounts, a Passbook account (which you will need to
go into a bank to withdraw money) and an ATM card account (which gives you an
option of using an ATM or EFTPOS machine).
W h a t do I ne e d to do to open an a c c o u n t ?



Tax File Number
Proof of permanent address
ID - check with the bank to find out what ID you need
Money - these days you only need a $1 to open an account
MEDICARE
Me d i c a re Card
To have a medicare card you can be any age, although if you are under the age of
16 you must have parental consent. If you need a medicare card you can pick up a
form from any medicare office near you.
Becoming Indepen de nt

35
35
RENTING
When you have decided you would like to rent it is worth while contacting the local
Real Estate Agents. Use the Yellow Pages, the local newspaper or the net to contact
local Real Estate Agencies.
Once you have made contact with a Real Estate Agent it is worthwhile to view their
properties to make sure that the rental property is what you are looking for.You can
also view properties on the internet with some Real Estate Agents.
Most Real Estate Agents will get you to complete a Tenancy Application Form and
this will need to be approved.
In order to process your tenancy application, you will normally need to provide the
following:
1. Fully completed and signed tenancy application form, including your
acknowledgment of the Privacy Act
2. Photo identification - Health Care Card, Drivers Licence or Passport
3. Three current references. References from friends or family may
not be accepted
4. Confirmation of current residential address ie Bank account, telephone account etc
5. Next-of-kin details in case of an emergency
You may need a guarantor if under 18. A guarantor is someone over 18 who agrees
to be legally responsible for unpaid bills or rent.
Remember, when seeing a Real Estate Agent, look the part and dress smart - you
may get a better reception.
Becoming Indepen de nt
BOND
36
Once you have signed the lease, you will usually have to pay a bond (usually
equivalent to one month’s rent) and one month’s rent in advance. If you are
looking to attend University / TAFE they often have a counsellor to help you
with accommodation or alternatively its worth checking the notice boards in the
Student Union area. You can also find accommodation in the Wanted to Rent
section of the local newspaper. The good days to check this are on a Wednesday
or a Saturday.
Also local church notice sheets often have rooms available so well worth a look.
VOTING
It is compulsory for all Australian Citizens over the age of 18 years to enrol to vote. Enrol
today if you are over 18 and not yet enrolled. It is compulsory to vote in State, Federal
and local council elections once you are 18. You will be fined if you don’t vote.
Who can I contact?
Australian Electoral Commission t: 132 326
www.aec.gov.au or any local post office will have the correct forms
DRIVING
You can apply for a learner’s permit to drive a car when you are 16, and a motorbike
permit when you are 18 years old.
You can apply for a licence to drive a car when you are 18 provided you have had a
learner’s permit for a period of a minimum of twelve months, and have completed at
least 120 hours of supervised driving in a variety of conditions, including 10 hours at
night. This driving experience must be recorded in an official learner logbook that is
signed by you, the learner driver, and your supervising driver. For any learner driver
over 21 years of age, there is no need to complete 120 hours of supervised driving or
submit a learner logbook.
After you pass your tests you will be issued with either a P1 or P2 probationary licence
which allows you to drive under the following restrictions.
P1 Probationary licence restrictions:
You must display red P plates at all times (plates measuring approximately
150mm square with a white letter P on a red background)
 You must not have any alcohol in your blood when driving
 You must not use a mobile phone, hand held, hands free or messaging of any kind
 You are not permitted to drive a high powered vehicle
 You cannot tow a caravan or trailer (unless for work at the request of
the employer, under instruction with an experienced driver sitting beside you
or you are using the vehicle in connection with agriculture, horticulture, dairying,
pastoral or other like pursuits like commercial fishing)
 You are not allowed to carry more than one passenger aged between 16 and
21 years of age
 If you pass your drive test in an automatic vehicle, you will be restricted to
driving automatic vehicles while you hold a probationary licence
 You must carry your licence at all times while driving







You must display green P plates at all times (plates measuring approximately
150mm square with a white letter P on a green background)
You must not use a hand held mobile phone while driving
You are not permitted to drive a high powered vehicle
You must not have any alcohol in your blood when driving
If you pass your drive test in an automatic vehicle, you will be restricted to driving
automatic vehicles while you hold a probationary licence
You must carry your licence at all times while driving
Who can I contact?
Vic Roads
t: 131 171
www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
Having trouble getting your licence?
Ballarat East Community House t: 5331 4107
Wendouree Community House t: 5339 5069
United Way L2P Program t: 5331 5555
(Driving assistance for disadvantaged youth)
Becoming Indepen de nt
P2 Probationary licence restrictions:
37
37
When you are employed
AWARDS, CONDITIONS AND PAY SLIPS
There are Federal awards which set out the terms and conditions of employment
you’re entitled to receive for particular industries. Awards cover:





Pay Rates
The process that must be followed if you are sacked
Long Service Leave
Overtime Rates
Maternity and Paternity Leave
To check your award or to find out if you are being paid properly ring the Department
of Employment.
Who can I contact?
Fairwork Ombudsman 131 394
www.fairwork.gov.au
DISCRIMINATION
Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Commission can advise you about whether or not you
have been unlawfully discriminated against. The Commission has the power to
investigate complaints of unlawful discrimination
How Long Have I Got To Lo d g e A Co m p la in t ?
You have 12 months from the date you believe that the discrimination occurred to
lodge a complaint.
Who can I contact?
When You Ar e Employed
Victoria’s Equal Opportunity Commission
t: 9032 3583 or 1300 292 153 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
38
JOB WATCH
Job Watch is a consumer watchdog which monitors exploitation in employment and
training. Job Watch assists people experiencing exploitation at work or while looking
for work. Job Watch is a community legal centre that provides a free and confidential
telephone information and referral service. If you feel suspicious about a job
advertisement, an interview situation or any other work related problem, Job Watch is
a good organisation to contact.
Job Watch is a useful starting point if you are unsure who to speak to or what you should
do about any concerns or issues relating to looking for work or while in employment.
Who can I contact?
Job Watch
t: 9662 1933 or 1800 331 617 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
www.jobwatch.org.au
PAYING TAX AND A TAX FILE NUMBER
No matter how old you are, if you are working full-time or part-time and earn more than
$18,000 in one year, then you should put in a tax return.
The first $18,000 you earn is tax free. This is called the ‘tax free threshold’. You can
only have the tax free threshold applied to one source of income (eg if you work
part-time and receive Youth Allowance, you can only claim the tax free threshold for
either your part-time income or your Youth Allowance income).
Your employer will send you a Payment Summary after the end of the financial year
(ie after June 30). This summary will set out how much you have earned and how
much tax you have paid.
If you earn less than $18,000 and you have had tax taken from your pay you should
lodge a tax return to get that money back. This is called a ‘tax refund’. If you are under
18 and you earn money from investments, you have to put in a tax return if you earn
more than $416 in one year.
The Taxation Office offers a free online tax return lodgement called “E-Tax” each year
which will help you complete in your tax return.
You need a Tax File Number when you:





Are over 16
Become a tertiary student on HECS
Receive Government payments
Lodge a tax return
Earn income
To apply for a tax file number you must collect a form from your nearest taxation office.
You will have to prove your identity ie with a Birth Certificate. If you have any questions
about tax, ring the Australian Taxation Office t: 132 861.
If you are applying for Centrelink payments, Centrelink can assist you to apply for a
Tax File Number. Forms are also available from Post Offices.
All employees in Australia must receive a superannuation contribution from their
employer except:



Employees under 18 years old who work less than 30 hours per week
Employees who are paid less than $450 (before tax) within any calendar month
Employees who do domestic work less than 30 hours per week
So , I f I a m not in the above ca t e g o r ie s , c a n I g e t it ?
If you have never signed a form to join a super fund, and you are eligible to be paid
Super, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) can hold the money you are owed, or they
can get the employer to start to pay it.
Who can I contact?
Superannuation Information Line
t: 131 020
When You Ar e Employed
SUPERANNUATION
39
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PROBLEMS AT WORK?
What Is The Fair Work Commission?
The Fair Work Commission (the Commission) is the national workplace relations
tribunal. It is an independent body with power to carry out a range
of functions including:
 Providing a safety net of minimum conditions, including minimum wages in awards
 Facilitating good faith bargaining and the making of enterprise agreements
 Granting remedies for unfair dismissal
 Regulating the taking of industrial action
 Resolving a range of collective and individual workplace disputes through
conciliation, mediation and in some cases arbitration
 Functions in connection with workplace determinations, equal remuneration,
transfer of business, general workplace protections, right of entry and stand down.
The work of the Fair Work Commission is carried out by Commission members with
the support of administrative staff.
Who can I contact?
Fairwork Australia
t: 1300 799 675 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
www.fwc.gov.au
UNIONS - BALLARAT TRADES HALL
Union membership can give you more power during employer and employee
negotiations because you are part of what’s called collective bargaining power.
When You Ar e Employed
What Is Collective Bargaining?
40
Collective bargaining power means that your employer has to negotiate with the union
that represents a group of workers. It can give you more industrial support when you
have problems at work, or when you’re trying to negotiate better conditions, such as
more money.
Who Is Eligible To Join The Union?
All Australian employees are eligible to join a union.
Who can I contact?
ACTU Member Connect
t: 1300 362 223 *Free to call from landline, $1 per minute on mobiles
www.actu.asn.au
Industrial Advice and Union Referrals
Helpful Websites
www.jobsearch.gov.au
www.careersonline.com.au
www.vtac.edu.au
www.shortcourses.vic.gov.au
www.homeworktips.about.com
www.seek.com.au
www.freeza.vic.gov.au
www.kidshelp.com.au
www.youthgas.com
www.ballarat.vic.gov.au
www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
www.chatfirst.com.au
www.cybersmart.gov.au
www.familiesaustralia.org.au
www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au
au.reachout.com
www.myfuture.edu.au
www.headspace.org.au/ballarat
www.leap.vic.edu.au
www.beyondblue.org.au
www.lifeline.org.au
Helpful Websites & Ed ucation Contacts
www.federation.edu.au/programfinder
41
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42
CYBa/Highla nd s Ho tspo t
Volunteering
Leaving School is an interesting stage and journey in every young person’s
life. There are many options to consider: a gap year, employment, traineeship,
apprenticeship or volunteering in order to gain experience, new skills and make
a contribution. Whatever your decision just remember life itself is an education.

Go Volunteer
e: govolunteer@govolunteer.com.au
www.govolunteer.com.au

United Way Ballarat
Level 1, 92 Bridge Mall
(Entrance off Peel Street)
PO Box 50, Ballarat VIC 3353
t: 5331 5555
f: 5331 8618
e: info@unitedwayballarat.com.au
www.unitedwayballarat.com.au

Ballarat Community Health
12 Lilburne Street, Lucas
t: 5338 4500
e: info@bchc.org.au
www.bchc.org.au/volunteers.php

Uniting Care Ballarat
105 Dana St Ballarat VIC 3350
PO Box 608 Ballarat VIC 3353
t: 5332 1286
f: 5332 1055
www.unitingcareballarat.com.au
Volunteering
If you decide volunteering to develop your skills or contribute to your community
is the way to go, the following might be helpful:
43
43
Notes
Note Your Long Term Goals
44
Notes
Note Your Long Term Goals
45
45
Notes
Note Your Long Term Goals
46
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