The importance of collaboration between the sector and NFP

For the past three years, SydWest has teamed up with John Holland and TAFE NSW to help newly arrived migrants and refugees kickstart careers in construction. The latest 9-week program, completed in late 2024, saw 15 participants gain essential skills, hands-on experience, and a White Card.

Meet the Participants:

• Adam: A civil engineer from Sudan, Adam improved his English at TAFE NSW while completing the program. He’s now working part-time with a local construction company.
• Reza: From Afghanistan, Reza specialized in bricklaying and concreting. The program boosted his confidence and skills, leading to full-time work with a building contractor in south-west Sydney.
• Jonathan: Originally from Tanzania, Jonathan recently finished high school in Australia. Excelling in the program, he secured a full-time job with a large landscape and civil construction service.

With another program starting mid-2025, interest is already high. This success is thanks to the strong partnership between SydWest, TAFE NSW, and John Holland, ensuring smooth transitions into the workforce for migrants and refugees.

For more information, contact SydWest on info@sydwestms.org.au

First published in Community Connections, Issue 1, 2025 (March)