The Allan Labor Government is continuing to invest in the future of students in Bendigo – helping them connect with local businesses to explore career opportunities and investing in their future.
Premier and Member for Bendigo East Jacinta Allan and Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards today announced that the Victorian Budget 2025/26 invested $1.2 million to further the Passions and Pathways program operated by the Goldfields Local Learning and Employment Network (GLLEN), allowing it to continue to deliver for young people in the area over the next four years.
“By connecting students with local industries, the program strengthens community ties and builds a skilled, inspired next generation. Said Ms Edwards
“Passions and Pathways is about helping local students get into meaningful, fulfilling work in our local industries.
“Thank you to the GLLEN, schools and local businesses for supporting this incredible program – I’ve been proud to work with them to secure this funding.”
This program empowers students in Years 5 and 6 by broadening their career awareness, fostering confidence, and encouraging them to envision possibilities beyond their current circumstances.
Through engaging, hands-on experiences with local businesses, students gain valuable insights into diverse industries.
Throughout the program, students explore a range of career options through visits to workplace and educational institutions and hear from Young Industry Ambassadors.
A key feature of the program is a community-based entrepreneurial project, where students partner with a local business to solve a real-world problem. Over the course of the 10-week program, students take part in hands-on activities to inspire their future career and aspirations.
In 2024 nearly 100 business tours were delivered to over 400 students participating across 10 schools, working with over 60 businesses across 10 industries.
This is part of the Labor Government’s Promoting Equal Access to Education initiative – which aims to ensure all students regardless of background, have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
