Amongst a sea of bad news, a good news story! We write plenty of resumes and cover letters for carers wanting to get back to work. I give career advice too. A good initiative by the Federal Government.

Returning to work after a break due to caring responsibilities, can be challenging for women 30-45 years of age.

The new Government’s Mid-Career Checkpoint Program pilot aims to make this transition easier. It will provide skills and employment assessment services, tailored career advice and coaching sessions free of charge.

The program is open to all eligible carers who meet the criteria, who have devoted more than two years to caring responsibilities and are returning to paid employment.

From 1 July 2020, the six-month Mid-Career Checkpoint Program pilot will be available for up to 1,000 eligible carers in New South Wales, through Apprenticeship Support Australia, and in Queensland, through Sarina Russo Job Access.

There is a particular focus on women aged 30 to 45 years to help boost their workforce participation and improve outcomes for individuals, their families and the economy.

There are two entry points to the program. ‘Stepping Back In’ provides eligible carers with access to support and advice on re-entry into the workforce.

‘Stepping Up’ offers advice on advancing or changing careers to eligible carers who have already returned to the workforce (within 18 months of their application).

For more: https://www.employment.gov.au/newsroom/free-advice-and-assistance-carers-returning-employment