AN employment assistance hub in Frankston is set to expand its services after a funding injection.
Last week, Citi Foundation awarded its “Global Innovation Challenge: Accelerating Youth Employability” grant to The Brotherhood of St. Laurence for its Thrive Hub program. Through the grant stream the program will receive $500,000 USD, which converts to roughly $750,000 in AUD, to expand its services at hubs in Frankston and Broadmeadows.
The “Thrive Hubs” are open to Victorians seeking support in the search for employment. Each hub offers customised support to eligible clients, and works alongside local employers.
At an event last week, the federal and state governments also each reaffirmed $1 million commitments to the Frankston and Broadmeadows services.
Brotherhood of St. Laurence executive director Dr Travers McLeod said the money would “accelerate the organisation’s ability to strengthen pathways for young people who were marginalised in the labour market.”
“This recognition from Citi Foundation affirms the importance of community-driven innovation. With their support, we can reach more young people, connect them with employers, and ensure they have the tools to thrive and meet their full potential,” McLeod said.
Federal minister for employment and workplace relations, Amanda Rishworth, said she is “pleased to be fulfilling our government’s election commitment to partner with the Victorian Government to extend these much-needed employment hubs for Victorians.”
“The extension of the Thrive Hubs will provide valuable insights into what locally led employment solutions can look like and provide ongoing evidence for employment services reform and place-based employment models,” she said.
Victorian small business and employment minister Natalie Suleyman said “Thrive Hubs strengthen local employment by connecting locals with real job opportunities, helping more Victorians find meaningful, secure work close to home.”
First published in the Frankston Times – 16 December 2025