Despite the unemployment rate rising, some businesses are still in need of skilled workers.

WISE Employment Northcote recently organised a new training opportunity for job seekers with disability to fill local in-demand positions.

Seven job seekers with disability completed a Certificate II in Warehousing which included training in picking and packing, OH&S and general warehousing duties.

The training has given the job seekers recognised skills to start working in warehousing straight away.

Anthony, 43 had been unemployed for three months after his casual warehousing work finished. He spoke to Christine Smith at WISE Nothcote about finding new work and she suggested he do training, which he has just finished.

“The best part of the training for me was that I could do it in my own time, and I really enjoyed it.”

Anthony has worked in warehousing for years but said the training gave him a qualification which will recognise his skills.

“Now I am actually applying for supervisor roles - it has given me a big confidence boost now that I have a certificate to prove I can do the work.”

Christine from WISE Northcote organised the training which included formal training and on-the-job experience.

“We worked with Brunswick Business Services and TIDE training to deliver the course.”

“We wanted to give our job seekers new skills in an area that needs more workers”, said Christine.

“In the Northern suburbs the demand for warehousing staff is huge; it’s an industry the Government has identified as having a skills shortage.”

Christine is now helping Anthony find full-time work in warehousing.

“Now that Anthony has a Certificate II qualification, I am confident he will be back in the workforce in no time.”

For more information about WISE’s cost-free recruitment service, please call 1800 685 105.