Waimate District Council has secured funding for another year of the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ) programme which helps jobseekers into employment. However, this year’s funding from central government has been significantly reduced and comes with a new directive that reduces the reach of our programme, focusing on youth rather than all ages.
For the coming year (to 30 June 2026), we will prioritise 18- to 24-year-olds who are on a main Ministry of Social Development benefit and then 16- to 24-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training. Lack of a driving licence is a barrier to employment in rural communities so driver licensing support will remain a key component of the programme.
“The MTFJ programme has been a great success with 41 people in the Waimate District helped into employment in the 2024/2025 year,” says Mayor Craig Rowley. “We are grateful for the opportunity to continue the programme for another year and look forward to focusing on the youth in our community. While central government has narrowed the scope of the programme with the focus now being on those 18- to 24-year-olds receiving a benefit, we will continue to support those in the 16- to 18-year-old group where possible.”
This year also sees a change in staffing of the programme as Lisa Dobson has moved on to another opportunity. We are pleased to announce that Deborah Kibble, who has been our driving instructor, has taken over the reins. Lisa has done a tremendous job for the community, and we know Deborah will continue the good work. Due to the funding reduction, Deborah’s role as MTFJ Coordinator will encompass both employment and driver licensing support.
For more information, go to waimatejobs.co.nz
