13 May 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Jobs and training are building blocks for modern economy

The Labour Progressive government is investing $56.9 million over the next four financial years to assist young people into further education, training or work because it knows the investment will more than pay for itself over time, Progressive MP Matt Robson said today.

"The initiatives announced by Tertiary Education Minister Steve Maharey today will make a strong contribution to the coalition government's commitment to ensure all young people are in appropriate education, training or work as soon as practicable," the Progressive MP said.

"The private benefits to young people of this government's policies are obvious in terms of expanding their life opportunities.

"The public benefits are that we are putting in place the building blocks that are required to give further substance to our efforts to transform our economy into a higher gear," Matt Robson said.

The Labour and Progressive partners in the coalition government made firm manifesto commitments to ensure that all young people get a good start in life. In October 2002 we also signed a formal memorandum with the Mayors' Taskforce for Jobs adopting the formal goal that by 2007, all 15-19 year olds will be engaged in appropriate education, training, work or other options which will lead to long term economic independence and well-being..

ENDS

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