Local government scholarships for regions

Local Government Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich today announced that the State Government would fund, through the WA Leadership Program, scholarships for 12 workplace opportunities for young people in local government.

Ms Ravlich said $138,000 would be made available to assist local governments to provide 12-month scholarships for young people to experience work in the local government sector. 

The scheme would see 11 local governments funded, with each receiving $11,500 from the State Government.

The local governments involved are:

·                  City of Bunbury

·                  Shire of Boddington

·                  City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder

·                  Shire of Kondinin

·                  Shire of Menzies

·                  Shire of Pingelly

·                  City of Rockingham

·                  Shire of Westonia

·                  Shire of Woodanilling

·                  Shire of Yalgoo

·                  Shire of York.

The Minister said the local government authorities would provide matching funds under the scholarship agreement.

“These scholarships are leading to excellent employment prospects for young people, particularly indigenous young people, while giving them the potential to be young leaders within their communities,” Ms Ravlich said.

Four of the 12 positions funded will be awarded to young indigenous people.  Since the scheme commenced in 2003, 53 indigenous young people have been assisted through the program, in rural and regional areas.

The Minister thanked participating local governments for creating valuable employment and lifelong learning opportunities.