Western Pathways is an engagement and diversionary program designed to respond to community concerns about increasing social and economic disadvantage and its connection to negative social and community behaviours across Melbourne’s western region.
Delivered by Jesuit Social Services in partnership with Opendoor, the program provides tailored support for young people who are experiencing unemployment.
The inclusive services help people to develop skills, connect with local social supports and participate in meaningful jobs, training and community activities. Through early intervention and prevention, Western Pathways works with individuals and families before offending occurs, supporting positive choices, reducing risk factors associated with antisocial behaviour, and strengthening community safety and wellbeing.
The program delivers a participant-centred service from initial engagement through to further education, training or employment.
The inclusive services help people to develop skills, connect with local social supports and participate in meaningful jobs, training and community activities.
The two-year pilot program will focus on people aged 15 to 24, people from multicultural communities and people who are at risk of involvement, or have previously been involved, with the justice system.
Participants can access mentoring and coaching, skills assessments, resume and interview preparation, support with training and tickets, job placement and support, and referrals to health and housing services.
Tailored pathways are developed in partnership with each participant, aligning individual aspirations with workforce and community needs while ensuring access to holistic supports that promote health, mental health, family stability and overall wellbeing.
Engagement is voluntary and does not impact existing welfare or support arrangements. The ultimate objective of Western Pathways is to improve long-term employment and wellbeing outcomes, reduce intergenerational disadvantage, and promote positive community engagement and participation across Melbourne’s west.
Western Pathways Program supports people experiencing economic and social exclusion, with a strong focus on young people aged 15–24 and their families who are facing unemployment and increasing cost-of-living pressures.
