76,000 high school students to benefit from new funding to help them complete Year 12 and improve their career prospects

The Australian Government's commitment of $38.2 million to support disadvantaged young people to participate in high quality career support programs, is an investment in future generations at a time of grave economic uncertainty caused by COVID-19, says national children's education charity The Smith Family.

"The Smith Family welcomes the Government's funding to help young Australians gain a better understanding of the world of work before they complete school, and so improve their post-school opportunities," said Dr Lisa O'Brien, CEO of The Smith Family.

Being in work, training and study post-school is heavily influenced by what happens while young people are in school.

"This funding will enable The Smith Family to offer career support to 76,000 young people experiencing disadvantage in communities across Australia. Research shows that connecting students with employers has a positive impact on their academic results, as well as their motivation and aspirations."

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected young Australians living in poverty both in terms of their engagement in school, and in finding a foothold in employment and educational training, when they leave school.

Young people experiencing poverty have limited opportunities to advance their career aspirations and prospects, and this year have been hit particularly hard. But evidence shows that young people who take part in four or more encounters with the world of work while in school, are much more likely to be in employment, education or training in their 20s.

"The time to support young Australians is now, so that together we can deliver outcomes beneficial to the long-term economic and social wellbeing of young people and Australia as a whole," said Dr O'Brien.

The Government is also investing $4.4 million in the early numeracy skills of 120,000 children at the start of their educational journeys, through The Smith Family's proven Let's Count program.

"Research shows that students from disadvantaged backgrounds are much more likely to start school behind, often leading to poorer long-term educational outcomes. Let's Count supports 3-5-year olds to develop maths knowledge, skills and dispositions as they prepare to start school," said Dr O'Brien.

"The funding commitment announced today will enable The Smith Family to reach tens of thousands of young Australians with our unique solution to the problem of intergenerational disadvantage and help us deliver lasting change and positive outcomes, not only for children in need, but also for our nation" said Dr O'Brien.

Media Enquiries:

Charlotte Glennie, National Media Manager, 0420 407 886, Charlotte.Glennie@thesmithfamily.com.au