The ALBANESE GOVERNMENT will work with the social enterprise sector to boost labour force participation and economic development in some of the nation’s most disadvantaged communities as a key outcome of the Employment White Paper.

Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker, said the vision is for a dynamic and inclusive labour market where everyone has the opportunity for secure, fairly-paid work and where communities can thrive.

Meeting with staff and volunteers at Star Café, a social enterprise led by VMCH, Ms Coker discussed the importance of breaking down the barriers that hold people back from employment.

“We owe it to all Australians to tackle entrenched disadvantage in our communities and empowering and partnering with social enterprises we will be a step closer to achieving that goal,” Ms Coker said.

“Social enterprises are so important when it comes to ensuring everyone has the opportunity for secure, fairly-paid and rewarding work – Star Café is a perfect example of this in our region.”

“Cathy, Lindy-Joy and the workers here do an incredible job, and I’d encourage all locals to drop by for a coffee, a pastry, or something sweet.”

Acting CEO of VMCH, David Williamson, added that social enterprise plays an important role in bringing communities together.

“We are very proud of our social enterprise, Star Café, which not only gives people with disability valuable job skills experience, but offers a unique in-house ‘café culture’ for aged care residents and their loved ones,” Mr Williamson said.

“The intergenerational benefits for residents has been amazing, with some special bonds formed between young café patrons, residents, and trainees.”

“I’d also like to thank the Torquay community for embracing the café. Our team looks forward to serving up delicious coffee and food for locals for years to come.”

There are more than 12,000 social enterprises across the country with a workforce of more than 206,000 and about 58 per cent are employment-services based.

This growing sector offers employment opportunities to people experiencing disadvantage through inclusive employment opportunities, job training and on-the-job support to people facing complex barriers to work.

As presented in the Employment White Paper, the Albanese Government will draw on the expertise of the social enterprise sector and build its capacity to improve the labour market outcomes of people who experience entrenched disadvantage.