Fencing Program in Queensland helps young people get a head start

Eight young men and women in Queensland’s Gold Coast have received valuable training and hands-on work experience under the Nation Building – Economic Stimulus Plan, and a program partnership with BoysTown.

Through a competitive process, BoysTown won the public work contract in Queensland to carry out work as part of the roll out of $40 million in funding for the repairs and maintenance of over 9,000 existing social housing dwellings across the State. As a result, the Fencing Program began in April 2009.

Under the Program, trainees replace pipe-and-chain and timber fencing at social housing properties across the Gold Coast. To date, eight trainees have undertaken power and hand-tool training, and received a Certificate 1 in Construction.

With the support of BoysTown, the Program helps prepare the trainees for full-time employment in the jobs market – with both practical skills and work behavior.

The Program has started positively, with BoysTown reporting the eight young people showing good initiative and eagerness to work each day. BoysTown sees attitudinal change and work readiness as the major benefits of the experience.

BoysTown expect three quarters of the trainees will go on to find sustainable ongoing employment. If the past results are any indicator, the next crop of trainees can look forward to a bright future.

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