As part of the Reskilling NSW election commitment, the NSW Government promised $8 million to assist 15 to 19 year olds discover meaningful and effective pathways into vocational education, training, and hopefully employment.

As part of the program, Mid Coast Inc., already with offices in various locations throughout the region including Port Macquarie, Kempsey and Taree, has been chosen to provide essential training and employment services.

"Mid Coast Connect Inc. will provide career mentoring, help young people get work experience and assist with the transition to training and employment, including apprenticeships and traineeships," said Leslie Williams, the current Member for Port Macquarie. "The NSW Government

Minister for Regional Development, Skills and Small Business, John Barilaro, said the rollout of the Regional VET Pathways Program could make a very positive difference to the lives of many young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

"We are committed to providing support to young people in the Mid-North Coast Region," Mr Barilaro said. "The NSW Government continues to deliver support and training programs to those who need it most including 200,000 fee-free scholarships which are available for the disadvantaged and for young residents in social housing and out of home care."