With the health, wellbeing and community services industry forecast to have the biggest employment increase in Western NSW over the next three yearsi, Dubbo job seekers are being encouraged to consider a rewarding career assisting members of the community. 

Mission Australia Area Manager, Megan Boshell, said there is a high demand for qualified youth and social workers in the region and employers are finding it difficult to find applicants with a broad range of skills.  

“It takes a certain personality type to be able to work in the community services industry along with strong communication skills, an understanding of the types of situations the community experiences and the ability to respond quickly to issues and emergencies.   

“A TAFE NSW qualification is a good starting point for anyone looking to gain the practical skills and experience that they need to assist the needs of the local community.”  

Dubbo resident Ally Niemeyer has experienced first hand the challenges of working with children with disabilites and has become increasingly aware of the job opportunities in the community services industry. She studied a Diploma of Community Services at TAFE NSW Dubbo and is now reaping the rewards working as a support worker at Mission Australia.    

“The TAFE NSW course has given me the hands-on skills and knowledge to be able to work and better the lives of local children and their families,” Ms Niemeyer said. 

“I was able to work and study at the same time, which meant I could apply what I was learning to my role.  

“I’d encourage others to start studying at TAFE NSW to grow your skills to be whatever you want to be.” 

TAFE NSW Community Services Teacher, Donna Maree-Shadwell, said Ally was a hard working student who was clearly driven by her career goals. 

“Ally is a wonderful example of how TAFE NSW equips students with the practical skills and work experience they need to pursue a career that they’ll love.”  

The Certificate IV and Diploma in Community Services as well as the Certificate IV in Social Housing are all available for semester two enrolment at TAFE NSW Dubbo, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or phone 131 601 for more information. 

Media contact: Emma Curtis, TAFE NSW Media and Communications Business Partner, (02) 6338 2509, mobile 0427 901 515 

_______________________________ 

i TAFE NSW Regional Strategy report. Health, wellbeing and community services.