ETC secures new Parent Pathways contract

MEDIA RELEASE: ETC secures new Parent Pathways contract

ETC is expanding its support for parents and carers after securing the new Parent Pathways contract with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) in the Gold Coast, Brisbane South-East and Somerset regions.

Parent Pathways, which is previously known as Parents Next, will be delivered by ETC from 1^st November. This is a voluntary service that provides personalised and financial support to eligible parents and carers of children up to the age of 6 years. The program is about parents and carers and their individual needs; and with the help of a qualified mentor, they will receive flexible support to assist with any personal, study or work goals.

ETC’s CEO, Damon Munt, said the community-oriented company is thrilled to help parents and carers across South-East Queensland with guidance and practical support, empowering them to achieve positive outcomes for their future.

“To incorporate parents’ needs and views into our service design, we engaged in early 2024 with key stakeholders, parents, community organisations, and employment services staff with direct parenting experience, and have taken into account parents’ feedback to the Department about the new Service,” Mr Munt said.

“The vision for this new program is for parents and carers to define and achieve goals through opportunities and resources that strengthen their family’s future. We will do this by customising activities, services and training that best meet their individual needs and circumstances.”

As a leading provider of business, training, and employment services with over 35 years of industry experience, ETC has a proven track record of helping people secure pathways into training, education, and employment.

The not-for-profit organisation has helped over 113,000 people in finding work, supported 54,000 students in training, and assisted nearly 43,000 small businesses. Plus, through the ETC Community Support Fund, ETC has provided over $2.5 Million to worthwhile community organisations.

According to ETC’s Parent Pathways Program Manager, Katrina McNie, participants of the program will be able to easily access the service via outreach servicesor within a local ETC office.

“Understanding that parents are at various stages of their journey, ETC mentors will be equipped to be mobile, offering flexibility to meet in locations that are comfortable for both the parent and their children and enabling them to connect informally in social gatherings or in more structured work preparation sessions,” Ms McNie said.

“Our passionate and dedicated team will engage with an open mind and a respectful attitude, ensuring parents feel valued and heard. We will advocate for their best interests at all times.”

ETC will commence delivery of the new Parent Program starting in November 2024.