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Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Indigenous Local Employment Fund

What is the Indigenous Local Employment Fund (ILEF)?

This is a new grant opportunity under the Indigenous Advancement Strategy. The ILEF aims to provide a response to short term, one-off funding proposals that help overcome obstacles for Indigenous job seekers in accessing local employment opportunities and provide pathways into short term labour markets, particularly where COVID-19 has had a significant impact on job opportunities.

What type of activities are likely to be supported?

Funding is available for proposed activities to address barriers facing Indigenous job seekers and meet their particular needs in local areas. Innovative solutions to help overcome obstacles facing job seekers and employers in COVID-19 affected labour markets are encouraged. Projects may include, but are not limited to, the following examples:

  • service providers to source and match Indigenous job seekers into short-term employment placements
  • qualified mentors to motivate and support Indigenous participants as they commence employment
  • qualified Indigenous or non-Indigenous facilitators/ coordinators to provide short-term guidance to Indigenous work teams and cross cultural communication between stakeholders
  • provision of training and upskilling for Indigenous job seekers (including qualifications for a specific job, drivers’ licence acquisition; personal and career development; life skills and money management)
  • health and safety support for Indigenous job seekers, which may include mental well-being, nutrition awareness and costs associated with COVID-19 workplace plans
  • transport, accommodation, catering or other practical support for Indigenous job seekers as they commence employment
  • cultural competency training for your workplace; and
  • small scale capital works and purchase of equipment to assist Indigenous job seekers commence work or receive training, if the need is well demonstrated (for example, if the hire cost exceeds the purchase price).

How much money can an organisation apply for?

The minimum amount per grant is $5,000 (GST exclusive) and the maximum amount is $250,000 (GST exclusive).

How long is the grant funding available for?

Funding is available until 30 June 2022. You must complete your project by 31 December 2022.

How can an organisation apply for the ILEF?

Organisations must contact and discuss their proposal with the NIAA Regional office in the locality where the project will take place. Some adjustments to the proposal may need to be agreed through this discussion. If the proposal is eligible and funds are available, an organisation may be invited by the NIAA Regional Office to submit a proposal. The organisation will be provided with an application form and guidance toolkit.

Applications must be received by 31 December 2021.

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