Vocational pathways focus on supporting adults to move from participation towards volunteering, training and, for some, employment.
This is particularly important for women with young children and for participants who bring skills and experience from overseas but face barriers to entering the Australian workforce.
Vocational pathways
Community hubs provide practical, supported pathways that help participants build confidence, develop skills and explore work-related opportunities at their own pace. Through volunteering, training programs and connections with local organisations, hubs support participants to strengthen job readiness and understand pathways to employment.
Hubs may offer support with English for work, resumes, job applications and interview preparation. They also connect participants to vocational training, volunteering opportunities and, in some cases, work placements within host schools or the wider community.
By supporting these pathways, hubs help participants build skills, confidence and experience, creating stronger foundations for future employment.
Story of impact
At St Paul’s Catholic Primary School hub in Logan (QLD), two mums first became involved in the school through playgroup. Despite limited English, they began volunteering at the school’s breakfast club and supporting hub events.
With ongoing encouragement and support, both women built confidence and skills and later stepped into paid work through the hub’s Cultural Cooking program. One has since moved into full-time employment outside the hub and recently purchased her first car – a significant milestone made possible through years of connection and support.
Both women were later nominated for the Jim Chalmers MP 2025 Local Legends Award, recognising their contribution to school and community life.