Centacare appointed as providers of settlement services for skilled migrants moving to Mid West

A program to help skilled migrants settle into regional communities has been introduced by the State Government, with Centacare appointed to deliver the program in the Mid West. The $4.25 million Skilled Migrant Job Connect Program supports newly arrived skilled migrants into WA’s workforce and community, through the provision of wraparound services. This expansion of settlement services supports migrants to overcome barriers to securing employment and to participate in the State’s economy and society as soon as possible. The service will help migrants find work, have access to health care, find education for their children, and support with English for themselves and their families. The new services are in addition to the existing free walk-in Settlement Services available at the Department of Training and Workforce Development’s WA Migration Services Perth-based office. “We know that supporting primary visa holders to find and retain employment, and the social and cultural integration of primary and secondary visa holders are key for the successful settlement of skilled migrants,” Training and Workforce Minister Simone McGurk said. “The services aim to create a sense of welcoming and belonging, expand a migrant worker’s network, and contribute to attracting and retaining migrants in regional areas.” Launched in July 2023, the program includes a subsidy to assist migrants to access financial support up to $7500. The payment helps to offset the cost associated with skills assessments, gap training, and meet occupational licensing requirements, to gain employment in occupations commensurate with their formal overseas qualifications.