MOMENTUM: Transforming Lives of Aboriginal People through Employment Opportunities

Casino – January 03, 2024 - The highly acclaimed Momentum Program, an initiative funded by the NSW Government, is making its way to Casino. Collaboratively developed by Real Futures, Pathfnders, and ACE Community Colleges, this groundbreaking program aims to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals by helping them overcome common barriers to long-term employment.

The next Momentum Program sign-up events will take place on February 1, 2024, at Tursa Employment and Training, 154 Canterbury Street, Casino NSW 2470 from 9:00 am –3:00 pm.

With a vision to make a lasting impact, Momentum offers free support to successful applicants, including assistance with obtaining birth certifcates, driver’s license acquisition, and fnding sustainable employment opportunities. To be eligible for the program, applicants must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, be aged between 16-55 years, not possess a Birth Certifcate or Driver’s License, and currently be unemployed.

During the Momentum Program, approved participants will receive guidance in applying for their birth certifcate on the same day of enrollment. To facilitate the process, individuals are advised to bring any available identifcation documents, such as Medicare Card, Health Care Card, Certifcate of Aboriginality, Student ID card, Health Care Card, or Pension Card.

Momentum represents a groundbreaking collaboration among three local organisations. Pathfnders plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with employment readiness, training services, and job placements, empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals in their journey towards sustainable employment. certifcates, driver’s licenses, and secure meaningful employment opportunities,” highlighted John Clancy, Momentum Program Manager. lives of many people across NSW. The impact we have witnessed through our driving license program alone is remarkable, and the collaboration of these three services holds immense promise.” obtaining their birth certifcates, while Ace Community Colleges provides guidance and support in obtaining driver’s licenses. Real Futures specialises in

“The signifcance of possessing a birth certifcate cannot be understated, as it unlocks essential rights, such as voting, opening a bank account, or obtaining a driver’s license. Without this vital document, individuals face numerous challenges, including diffculties in fnding employment,” said Pathfnders Momentum Coordinator, Phillip Bird.

“Momentum is a program that brings together essential services to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people obtain their birth

Natalie Hannah of ACE Community Colleges expressed her enthusiasm for the Momentum Program, stating, “Momentum is a wonderful program that has the potential to positively change the

Real Futures, a majority Aboriginal-owned and staffed company, plays a pivotal role in preparing program participants for employment. Through personalised support, job readiness training, and connections with local job opportunities, Real Futures empowers individuals with the skills and confdence necessary for long-term success in the workforce.

Steven Clarke of Real Futures emphasised their commitment to supporting individuals throughout their employment journey, facilitating a smooth transition into new roles.