Tackling youth unemployment – the priorities: VECCI

VECCI Chief Executive Mark Stone has called on both major parties to commit to recommendations to address youth unemployment in Victoria.

Mr Stone said the key action areas were:

Raise the payroll tax free threshold from $550,000 to $850,000, to lower business costs and encourage employers to hire new staff, including youth. 

Deliver priority infrastructure projects across the state, maximising opportunities for apprentices and trainees. 

 Redirect vocational education and training funding to support career paths in the service sector (hospitality, tourism, retail and administration). Restore support for School Based Apprenticeships (part time training). 

Fund additional places under the Victorian Government’s Employment Start-Up for Business program that provide SME employers with a grant of up to $4,000 to support the recruitment and training of a young person aged 15 to 25 years who works at least 30 hours per week.

The Victorian Employers' Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VECCI) is the peak body for employers in Victoria, informing and servicing more than 15,000 members, customers and clients around the state.

vecci.org.au

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