Goulburn Murray Local Learning and Employment Network Inc.

Goulburn Murray Local Learning and Employment Network Inc. (GMLLEN) is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to improving education, training, and employment outcomes for youth in the Goulburn Murray region. The organization focuses on supporting vulnerable young people, including Indigenous youth, those from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, and young people with disabilities. GMLLEN operates by fostering collaborative partnerships among schools, industry, and the community to create sustainable pathways for youth development and successful transitions into education, training, and employment.

Purpose and Mission

The primary purpose of GMLLEN is to address gaps in local youth support services by brokering and sustaining partnerships that deliver place-based programs and interventions. Its initiatives aim to ensure that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. This mission particularly targets young people experiencing social disadvantage, generational poverty, and long-term unemployment, facilitating their integration into meaningful education and career pathways.

Key Focus Areas

GMLLEN works across five key industry sectors to align youth opportunities with regional employment needs:

• Health and Community Services
• Manufacturing and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics)
• Agriculture and Horticulture
• Construction and Trades
• Transport and Logistics

By aligning youth engagement with these industries, GMLLEN aims to create relevant and sustainable employment pathways.

Programs and Impact

GMLLEN develops and supports a variety of programs to connect students with industry experiences, enhancing career readiness and practical skills. Its initiatives include coordinating student placements, organizing events, and maintaining a digital portal that lists local industry opportunities.

As of 2024, its recorded impact includes:

• Engagement with 274 industry stakeholders
• Coordination of 138 student placements with local businesses
• Listing 288 opportunities on the S2W (School to Work) Portal across three local government areas
• Creation and support of 17 events focused on youth career development

Organizational Approach

Operating as an independent, community-based nonprofit, GMLLEN emphasizes collaborative efforts among educators, industry partners, and young people to improve youth outcomes. The organization’s approach is place-based, tailoring programs to the unique needs of the Goulburn Murray region to ensure effective support and positive transitions for youth.

Vision

GMLLEN envisions a community where every young person has equitable access to education, training, and employment opportunities. By fostering partnerships and creating targeted programs, the organization strives to break cycles of disadvantage and empower youth to achieve sustainable and fulfilling careers.

The Goulburn Murray Local Learning and Employment Network continues to play a crucial role in shaping youth pathways in regional Australia, bridging the gap between education and employment through innovative and community-driven solutions.

[1] https://www.gmllen.com.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/ac4e724a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077 [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/ac4e724a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/documents/a2d055b4-b20c-ed11-b83d-00224812bcee [4] https://www.neverbounce.com/company/goulburn-murray-local-learning-employment-network/117408736 [5] https://mobile.shoutforgood.com/charities/goulburn-murray-local-learning-and-employment-network-inc