Gilmore MP Ann Sudmalis announced on Wednesday 18 to 30-year-olds in the Shoalhaven area who have been unemployed for 12 months or more and receiving Newstart and/or Youth Allowance (other) would be required to do Work for the Dole in 2014-15.

Mrs Sudmalis said from July 1, 2014 participants would complete around 15 hours per week for six months in a work-like environment.

“The government’s reinvigorated Work for the Dole program will give all participants the chance to have a go,” Mrs Sudmalis said.

“The Coalition government firmly believes that all Australians capable of working should be working. They should be earning, learning or Working for the Dole.

“Work for the Dole is an important part of the government’s plan to help young job-seekers gain the skills and experience they need to move from welfare to work and make a positive contribution to their local community. It keeps job-seekers engaged and active plus helps avoid a lifetime of welfare dependency.”

Mrs Sudmalis said the government would appoint a Work for the Dole co-ordinator for the Shoalhaven with tenders to be called this week

“These co-ordinators will have the vital, on-the-ground task of identifying local organisations willing to host a Work for the Dole place, and connecting those organisations with employment-service providers in the area,” Mrs Sudmalis said.

Work for the Dole places will be sourced in not-for-profit organisations, local councils and federal and state government agencies.

The 18 selected areas is the first phase in the lead-up to a national rollout of the program in 2015.

From July 1, 2015, all job seekers aged 18-30 who receive Newstart and Youth Allowance (other) will be required to undertake Work for the Dole for 25 hours per week.

Further information on the tender for the Work for the Dole co-ordinators will be available at www.tenders.gov.au from May 29.