Applications Open for Program to Boost Women’s Employment Opportunities

The NSW Government’s 2024–2025 Return to Work Pathways Program is now accepting applications from organisations to fund projects that help women overcome employment barriers and become job-ready. Grants ranging from $100,000 to $250,000 per organisation, up to a total of $2 million, are available to support diverse women in NSW, who experience lower workforce participation rates.

Eligible Groups

Organisations working with the following priority groups are encouraged to apply:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women
• Women with disabilities
• Carers
• Older women (55+)
• Young women (17–24)
• Culturally and linguistically diverse women
• Women in regional, rural, and remote areas (especially Far West and North West NSW)
• Women in Western Sydney

The program supports goals under the NSW Women’s Strategy to boost economic opportunity, health, wellbeing, participation, and empowerment for women across the state.

Program Successes

Since its launch in 2023, the program has funded 22 projects and supported more than 1,000 women. Tailored initiatives address barriers to workforce participation through training, mentoring, and wraparound supports.

One standout example is Beacon Laundry’s Women@Work initiative in the NSW Northern Rivers region, which has created 50 jobs for women facing complex barriers to employment.

Participants receive:

• On-the-job training
• Mentoring
• Supportive pathways to mainstream employment

Women@Work ensures employees gain the confidence and skills needed to transition to long-term, stable jobs.

Morag Roseby, General Manager at Beacon Laundry, shared the story of Terri, a 55-year-old who secured her first job through the program:

“Terri’s disability and struggles with addiction had kept her out of work for years. Now, as one of our first permanent part-time employees, she has gained independence and financial security.”

How to Apply

Expressions of Interest open Monday, 11 November 2024, and close Friday, 6 December 2024. For more information and to apply, visit Return to Work Pathways Program.

Encouraging Organisations to Apply

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison encouraged eligible organisations to participate.

“These grants empower women to overcome barriers to employment, improving confidence, wellbeing, and economic security while benefiting families and the broader economy.”

Organisations with innovative ideas for supporting women’s workforce participation are urged to apply and make a lasting impact.

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