Provider chosen for $69 million Green Corps program

The Federal Government has just awarded a $69 million, three-year contract for the delivery of its Green Corps – Young Australians for the Environment program to Jobs Futures and Greening Australia, Children and Youth Affairs Minister Larry Anthony announced today.

Mr Anthony said the Green Corps program was a 1997 Coalition Government initiative that gives young Australians with an interest in the environment the opportunity to receive quality training while participating in projects addressing significant environmental issues.

“To date 8,300 young participants have planted 4 million trees, built 2,000 kilometres of fencing, removed 30,000 hectares of weeds, collected 5 tons of native seeds and constructed or maintained 1,600 kilometres of walking track,” Mr Anthony said.

“The combined expertise of these two organisations in the environment, as well as training, welfare and employment support will further expand the scope of the Green Corps program.

“With a joint network of nearly 300 offices throughout Australia, the two organisations will provide excellent local support for projects. This improved way of delivering the Green Corps program will help build a better future for our young people and also help to protect the future of our environment.

“Last year more than 1,700 people aged between 17 and 20 years were able to participate in significant environment and heritage protection projects around the country.

“Nearly 90 per cent of participants in the Green Corps program report improved self-esteem, while a similar number report that their motivation and chances of finding a job had improved.

“Three months after leaving the program, more than two-thirds of participants are in employment, education or training.

“The Coalition Government is committed to keeping young people engaged with their communities, families, employment and training through youth development and early intervention programs,” Mr Anthony said.