Tweed Shire Council is taking full advantage of the NSW Government’s Fresh Start Program, offering apprenticeships, traineeships and cadetships for long-term careers in the local government sector.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who helped broker the $252.2-million statewide initiative with Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig and the United Services Union, said the recent milestone of 500 approved positions ‘on the tools’ was proof of early success.

The six-year program was launched last year, and more than 60 per cent of these new roles are boosting the workforces of regional or rural councils. 

Tweed Shire General Manager Troy Green PSM said a highlight of the year was the launch of the Council’s own in-house Academy, made possible through the Government’s Fresh Start Program.

“Following the most recent funding announcement, the Academy will welcome four additional apprentices and one cadet by February 2026, bringing the total number of Fresh Start-funded employees to 18,” Mr Green said.

“Across Council, this contributes to a strong pipeline of talent, with 30 apprentices, eight trainees and four cadets now building their careers with us.

“By keeping training, wages and experience within Northern New South Wales, the Academy is not only supporting local residents to launch their careers but also strengthening the capability of local businesses and community services.”

The Academy’s Coordinator Officers Christina Vuckovic said: “It’s been incredibly rewarding to see growth in the Academy and witness the enthusiasm and commitment of our recruits as they take these exciting steps forward.

“I’ve also enjoyed seeing the dedication of supervisors and mentors, whose ongoing support is creating positive, impactful experiences for our new recruits,” Ms Vuckovic said.

Mr Green said Tweed Shire Council would continue to leverage the Fresh Start Program to create local jobs and career pathways, fostering the next generation of talent and building long-term capability within the region.

“Moving forward, we will build on the Academy program by strengthening partnerships with local schools and employment service providers to create additional career pathways,” Mr Green said.

“Together, these initiatives demonstrate that Council is not only investing in the skills and wellbeing of today’s workforce but also preparing our organisation and our people for the future.” 

Tweed Shire Council comes under the Fresh Start Program’s Northern Rivers region, which as of last month was funding 43 recruits across participating councils.