Hundreds of Ballarat’s culturally and linguistically diverse learners can now navigate Australian life easier.
It was only made possible through the help of the CALD Education and Employment Pathways program run through the Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre.
This month the program received state-wide recognition after taking out the Department of Education and Training Learn Local Award.
Executive manager Michelle Whyte said the win was recognition the program was helping break down any negative stigmas regarding multiculturalism in Ballarat.
She said the program, which aims to enhance social inclusion and employment for more than 100 people over 26 cultures, was giving people with varied backgrounds the same opportunity as others.
Ms Whyte said one part of the program aimed to help people understand Australian slang.
“They’re things we take for granted,” she said.
Federation University also took out the excellence in creating local solutions award for their partnership with Whyndham Community and Education Centre with a program aimed at helping previously disengaged students access higher education.
