Works for Everyone

TAMARA St Eain is a 19 year old from Scone who now works three jobs to earn an income.

While Tamara is keen to work it has been difficult finding enough hours with her casual jobs and yesterday was her first day working at the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre as part of the work for the dole scheme.

Lee Watts, manager of the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre said the program represents a great opportunity for people who need more work and for the organisations they work for.

“It’s fantastic to give people out there that only need a chance and they contribute so much to your organisation,” said Mrs Watts.

“Work for the dole can’t replace a staff member, but they can help with extra needs at the moment we are not funded for someone to cover the office and we don’t want to have to close the office when we are out in the community, so that is where Tamara is a great help,” she said.

“The local economy has slowed and there are people who need extra hours and work for the dole is a option,” Lee Watts said.

Tamara St Eain learning new skills at the Scone Neighbourhood Resource Centre with Lee Watts.

Tamara has two casual jobs at the Satur shop and was also at La Vita Bella Trattoria, but the hours are changeable and JobLink Plus recommended she do the work for the dole program.

“I’ve only ever worked in the hospitality field, so I’m learning new skills here which is great,” said Ms St Eain.

“It has been fun, today I’ve tested the walkie-talkies for the horse festival, worked out how to sync the wifi with the camera, done some printing, emailing, created folders and helped some people at the front counter,” she said.

Update: Letter: Work for the Dole