FW awarded $5.8 million to support NSW women’s economic futures

FW Jobs Academy will play a critical role in bridging a jobs and skills gap and securing women’s economic futures, under the newly elected NSW Labor government.

FW founder and Managing Director, Helen McCabe congratulated Premier Minns and his incoming government, and welcomed their commitment to expanding the Jobs Academy. 

“NSW has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to boost women’s workforce participation while also addressing chronic labour and skills shortages, and Jobs Academy is the missing link,” said Ms McCabe.

Earlier this month, NSW Labor, then in Opposition, committed $5.8 million to support 1000 women to participate in this transformative program, if elected. Ms McCabe said the expansion will allow the Jobs Academy to meet current demand, and boost workforce participation for women in NSW. 

At 3.1 percent, NSW boasts the lowest unemployment rate among the states, but the NSW Treasury has estimated that by 2025-26, an additional 300,000 workers will be needed to fill critical jobs and skills gaps in this state.

“Jobs Academy works with employers, offering assistance to better prepare their workplaces to support flexible roles, build an environment where women can thrive and provide a pipeline of skilled labour,” said Ms McCabe.

FW Deputy Managing Director Jamila Rizvi said the innovative, fully virtual program connects women seeking the skills and connections to rewarding work in the state. 

“FW knows that women at different stages of their careers, from different backgrounds and industries, face varied challenges in the return to work. That’s why our program is graded to meet women where they’re at. Online delivery means participants can engage flexibly.”

FW Jobs Academy received $8.7 million in the October federal budget to support 2,000 Australian women over three years. This comes after a strong result in its initial pilot program with 72 percent of participants commencing work or study. 

FW has forged partnerships with more than 70 employers committed to hiring from the Jobs Academy including HESTA, CyberCX, Salesforce, Nine and Microsoft, with a focus on flexible and rewarding work.

About FW Jobs Academy

NSW Labor will support 1,000 women over two years to become job-ready, boosting women’s workforce participation and economic security while addressing chronic labour and skills shortages in New South Wales.

The $5.8 million investment will give women the confidence and capabilities they need through all stages of their return-to-work journey, from initial exploration to ongoing support once they find a new job. 

The program will give women access to:

• An online resources hub
• Professional development and skills training
• Coaching and mentoring
• Community, content and events
• Employer connections
• A lifetime of support – ongoing FW membership

FW Jobs Academy program has been designed by women, to work alongside women and has been successfully piloted with the Commonwealth Office for Women.

Read more about FW Jobs Academy at jobsacademy.futurewomen.com/