Youth Employment Pathways Program (YEPP) is a FREE program that gives young people the skills, confidence, and connections to succeed in education, training, and work. Through mentoring, industry partnerships, and practical programs, we’re opening doors to real opportunities.
We support participants with a variety of skill-building activities and opportunities to gain key accreditations through short courses. We partner with local industries and businesses that provide entry-level employment as well as pathways to apprenticeships and traineeships.
Through all this, we connect industries who are experiencing skill shortages to talented young people who are looking for work in Melbourne’s west.
“As I came to all the sessions, I learnt more about myself, my strengths and weaknesses, how to introduce myself and answer interview questions.”
Pamela, 2024 YEPP participant
Key dates and info
Next round starts Tuesday 12 May 2026
Duration: 6 weeks
Sessions: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 10am-2pm
Location: Phoenix Youth Hub, Footscray
Cost: FREE!
What does it involve?
Visit and learn about different industries through workplace tours and key guest speakers
Create connections, build confidence, practice enhanced communication skills and explore future opportunities
Be paid while undertaking a short job trial in one of the selected industries
Opportunities to connect with an industry mentor
Access key job accreditations such as: Construction White Cards; Responsible Service of Alcohol, Responsible Service of Food; First Aid; Barista and Café Operations and others
Prepare for apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities through diverse activities and workshops during the program
Who can join?
To be part of the YEPP program, a young person must be:
15-24 years old
Keen to develop their confidence and employability skills
Looking for a job
The program is focused on Melbourne’s west and north west, but anyone can apply.
It is FREE for all participants!
How to join the program
Young people can join the program by filling out our enrolment form.
Refer a young person
Referring individuals (employment service providers, parents/guardians, employment coaches, etc.) can fill out a referral form by clicking the button below.
Our team will then be in touch to learn more about the young person’s goals and to finalise enrolment.
Further questions?
Please contact us at yepp@mmvllen.org.au!
Supporters
The Youth Employment Pathways Program wouldn’t be possible without our amazing funders and partners.
Our 2026 supporters include:
