Broken Hill has been chosen to be part of a new $2.5million Welcome Experience project aimed at boosting the number of essential frontline workers moving to regional areas to deliver vital services.
The scheme was announced by Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty on a visit to the Silver City today – Wednesday – where she spoke at Alma Oval.
“The pilot is built around practical support and advice based on local knowledge delivered by host agencies across eight locations,” Minister Moriarty said.
Along with Broken Hill, Bega, Coffs Harbour, Corowa, Griffith, Goulburn, Muswellbrook and Walgett will also be a part of the pilot.
The pilot sees essential workers and their families being assigned a local connector to assist them with everything from schools and childcare, to finding a sporting club to pay for, and even employment for essential workers’ partners.
Workers eligible for the Welcome Experience include Department of Education and Training personnel, NSW Health staff, members of the police force, fire department employees and Department of Communities and Justice workers.
In Broken Hill, Regional Development Australia – Far West (RDAFW), is the host organisation.
“We kicked the program off about a month ago now,” RDA FW CEO Michael Williams told the Barrier Truth.
“Our local connector is Jill. She’s a local who has moved around a few times, so she really understands the value of those support mechanisms when you move and understands the value in having a local that can show you around and connect you with the community.”
“Establishing connections, developing friendships and support networks are important,” Minister Moriarty said.
“Linking essential workers with locals that can support them every step of the will ensure their move is a positive experience that will go a long way to helping them fall in love with regional New South Wales.”
For more information head to https://www.nsw.gov.au/regional-nsw/programs-and-grants/welcome-experience
