Murray Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network (LLEN) has welcomed the announcement that disengaged youth will have access to a new program to help them return to an education or training pathway.

 Minister for Education James Merlino earlier this week announced that Murray Mallee LLEN and Northern Mallee LLEN were successful joint applicants to conduct Navigator program services across the Mallee region.

The Navigator service is one of eight pilot programs across Victoria with funding of $8.6m over two years as part of the Victorian Government Education initiatives.  

Murray Mallee LLEN Executive Officer Deborah Quin welcomed the pilot program, adding that it was much needed in the Swan Hill, Gannawarra and Buloke regions.

“Currently, more than 900 young people aged 15 to 24 are not in education, training or employment across these regions,” Ms Quin said.

“The Navigator service will work with disengaged learners aged from 12 to 17 years and their support networks to return them to an education or training pathway.

“Additionally, Navigator pilots will work closely with the Department of Education and Training’s newly appointed area-based multidisciplinary teams to effectively engage and refer disengaged students.

“We are looking forward to working closely with a number of stakeholders to assist disengaged young people back into an education or training pathway.”

Murray Mallee LLEN will work with the Department, schools, TAFE, School Focused Youth Service, community organisations and agencies. The Navigator program will also draw upon the work and success of the former Youth Connections model.

Murray Mallee LLEN will manage the area covering Swan Hill Rural City Council, Gannawarra and Buloke Shire regions while Northern Mallee LLEN will manage Mildura Rural City Council and the Robinvale township.

The eight Navigator Pilot providers will meet with the Department in early June to finalise requirements and contracts, aiming to start the programs in mid to late June.

For more information visit the Victorian Government Navigator Pilot Program site.