23 OCTOBER, 2015: The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) has congratulated the Andrews Labor Government on the announcement of significant extra funding for state-wide jobs and skills.
The funding package will benefit the retail industry through the provision and incentive of greater training and jobs, and aims to halt the falling training levels that have been witnessed in training across the board.
ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, said the announcement will have far reaching benefits for many, and lead to a more robust and skilled workforce for retail and beyond.
“This additional funding is a significant shot in the arm for training and employment in Victoria, and has the ability to provide greater opportunities for both jobseekers and retail employers looking to hire new staff,” said Mr Zimmerman.
“Retailers will now have increased incentive to take on new workers, while existing staff will enjoy broader eligibility for a range of training and subsidies.
“The ARA is very keen to continue our work with the Andrews’ Government on training and employment initiatives, and we look forward to continuing to work alongside the Treasurer, Tim Pallas, and Minister for Training and Skills, Steve Herbert,” he said.
The ARA provides both accredited and non-accredited training to the Australian Retail industry via its training arm, Retail Institute, as well as a host of jobseeker programs.
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For interview opportunities with ARA Executive Director, Russell Zimmerman, call the ARA Media team on 0439 612 556 or email media@retail.org.au.
About the Australian Retailers Association:
Founded in 1903, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the retail industry’s peak representative body representing Australia’s $284 billion sector, which employs more than 1.2 million people. The ARA works to ensure retail success by informing, protecting, advocating, educating and saving money for its 5000 independent and national retail members throughout Australia. For more information, visit www.retail.org.au or call 1300 368 041.
