As part of the South Coast of Victoria Local Jobs Program’s Talking Transport project, community members, employers, education providers, government agencies and not-for-profit organisations came together in Portland to explore how transport can better connect people to employment, education, training and essential services. Facilitated by Kelly Mason, CEO of Bounce Global, the Appreciative Inquiry workshop focused on identifying practical solutions that build on the region’s existing strengths rather than starting from scratch.
Participants highlighted that Glenelg Shire already has many of the foundations for an effective transport system, including bus services, school bus networks, the L2P learner driver program, rail infrastructure, port facilities and employer-led transport initiatives. The key challenge identified was not a lack of assets, but ensuring these services work together in ways that reflect how people live, work and learn today.
The workshop identified opportunities to strengthen regional connectivity through a hub-and-spoke transport model centred on Portland, improve service frequency and alignment with work and training schedules, expand learner driver support, encourage employer-led transport initiatives and make better use of existing community transport assets. Participants also highlighted the importance of connecting smaller towns and rural communities with employment, education and service hubs across the region.
The conversation doesn’t end with the report. If you’re an employer, educator, community organisation, service provider or resident passionate about improving access to jobs, training and education, we encourage you to get involved.
Together, we can turn local ideas into practical action that strengthens workforce participation, community wellbeing and regional connectivity across Glenelg Shire and South Coast of Victoria.
For more information, or to join future discussions, contact Angela.Williams@localjobs.org.au.
Access the report here
