LOCAL learning and employment networks want to continue delivering “high-impact, cost-effective outcomes to ensure all young Victorians are supported into education and employment”.
They say that won’t be achieved if the State Government does not commit to a new three-year LLEN contract to provide certainty for communities, schools, and students across Victoria.
Last week chief executive of the North Central LLEN Jane Hosking and executive officer at the Campaspe Cohuna LLEN Jane Reid went to Parliament to meet with Murray Plains MP Peter Walsh, and Shadow Minister for Education and Industry and Economic Growth, Jess Wilson. 
The CEOs said the Department of Education’s current offer of a “highly limited” one-year contract undermines the stability of a proven model on which communities, schools and employers have relied for decades.
Ms Hosking said in real terms, despite growing demand, the 31 LLENs across the state have not received a funding increase since 2014.
She said VicLLENS have played a “critical role in bridging the gap” between education and employment for young people, across every region and postcode of the state.
“Since 2016, LLENs have coordinated more than 25,000 work-based learning  placements, currently partnering with almost 7000 employers statewide,” Ms Hosking said last week. 
“These partnerships open doors to real-world experience, support transitions into meaningful careers, and connect young people to industries which need them most.
“Longer-term funding also enables strategic planning, measurable outcomes, and the retention of a highly skilled, place-based LLEN workforce essential to delivering sustained impact.”
Mr Walsh said the Government needed to formally recognise LLENs as critical, place-based delivery partners in achieving its education, skills, and equity priorities. Secure, fit-for-purpose funding and a genuine commitment to long-term collaboration would mean LLEN’s offering  community-driven solutions.