Job prospects looking good

ZHONG Wong is hoping a pilot program aimed at helping migrants enter the workforce will increase his chances of employment, after graduating this month.
The 26-year-old Dandenong resident has completed a pilot program at Chisholm Institute of TAFE called the Chisholm Diversity Traineeship Program.
Mr Wong migrated from Malaysia to Dandenong, and under the pilot program has this month completed a Certificate III in Business Administration at the Dandenong campus.
He has gained work experience by working at Chisholm in an administrative role, and has acquired a Certificate through his studies, giving him the two elements most employers seek when looking for skilled staff.
Chisholm’s human resources manager David Thorsen described the training course as one of the first of its kind in Victoria.
“Dandenong is one of the most multi-cultural communities in Australia and by implementing this program Chisholm is working to more fully realise that,” he said.
“This is a specific strategy to assist Chisholm in diversifying its workforce.”
As well as learning theory, students get to work in various areas of Chisholm as employees, for the duration of the 18 month-long initiative.
The next program has been expanded to include six students as well as indigenous applicants.
“There are many benefits to those on the program,” Mr Thorsen said.
“That includes learning skills as well as learning what is required within the Australian working environment.
“This whole project has been made possible through extra funding from the strong financial position that Chisholm has developed.”
During the practical component of Mr Wong’s traineeship program, he has been employed by Chisholm to work within the Dandenong campus as an administrative assistant.
“I know employers like people to have both practical experience and training,” Mr Wong said.
“But it is not always easy to achieve that.
“The traineeship program provides a certificate – evidence that you have achieved both.”