Funding Secures Passions And Pathways For Next Four Years

A significant increase in funding has been allocated to the Passions and Pathways program by the Victorian State Government.

Member for Bendigo East, Jacinta Allan joined Member for Bendigo West, Maree Edwards at Lightning Reef Primary School on Friday 21 September to announce support of $1.2 million over four years from the Stronger Regional Communities Planfund.

The new funding will enable the Passions and Pathways program to continue to work with existing partners, as well as commence work with new schools and employers to deliver the program.

Jacinta Allan has been working closely with the Goldfields LLEN to make this investment in the skills of young people a reality.

“We know that intergenerational disadvantage is a challenge in the community, and the Passions and Pathways program helps to break down these barriers and delivers quality care and support that our kids need.”

Maree Edwards considers it a high priority project for the region and is proud to be able to help fund it extension for its continued success.

“The Andrews Labor Government is so proud to back this initiative – we’re building stronger regional communities and doing it hand in hand with locals.”

The Goldfields LLEN is thrilled about the increase in funding and the possibilities it will create for expanding the reach and offerings of the program to students in the Goldfields area.

GLLEN Deputy Chair Marg Lewis said the funding means there is a very strong future for Passions and Pathways.

“We are delighted that the program has been recognised by the State Government as an important way to reduce generational disadvantage, by introducing students to the world of work, and inspiring them to succeed.”

Back: Marg Lewis – GLLEN; Reuben Johnson – St Monica’s Primary; Fiona Lindsay – Eaglehawk Primary; Mark Brennan – Bendigo Manufacturing Group; Maree Edwards MP – Member for Bendigo West; Jim Dannock – Australian Industry Group; Jacinta Allan MP – Member for Bendigo East; John Jones – Eaglehawk Rotary; Dzintra Martin – Passions and Pathways Coordinator.

Front: Students from Year 6 at Lightning Reef Primary School