A new employment support initiative has launched in Townsville, Queensland, giving local jobseekers access to professional training designed to improve confidence, communication skills and career opportunities.
The Prepare to Launch program, delivered by the Community Information Centre Townsville, aims to help participants move into employment, further training or volunteering opportunities. The six-week program provides more than $3,100 worth of training and support per participant at no cost.
The program is funded through the Queensland Government’s Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative and focuses on supporting people who may need extra assistance entering or returning to the workforce.
One of the key features of the program is access to Crucial Conversations – Mastering Dialogue, a globally recognised communication course normally used by major organisations to develop leadership and workplace communication skills. The Townsville organisation is the only provider in North Queensland certified to deliver the training to community members.
Program coordinator Teresa Hope said the training was designed to help participants develop confidence when communicating, managing workplace discussions and building stronger professional relationships. The course aims to provide practical skills that can help jobseekers during interviews, workplace situations and career development.
Participants will take part in workshops covering communication, career planning, resume preparation, interview techniques, job search strategies and targeted skills development. The program also includes a community induction and opportunities to connect with local employers.
Townsville has continued to focus on workforce development as the region responds to changing employment needs across industries including healthcare, construction, defence, logistics, tourism and services. Other regional programs have also been introduced to build skills pathways and connect jobseekers with employers.
Employment organisations say programs that combine practical training with employer connections can improve outcomes by helping participants understand workplace expectations and develop confidence.
The initiative also reflects broader efforts across Australia to move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to employment services and provide more personalised support for people with different skills and barriers to employment.
The next Prepare to Launch intake begins on 4 August 2026 and is open to people aged 18 and over. Participants do not need to pay for the training, with eligible residents able to access the full program without upfront costs.
Local employers are also being encouraged to participate by sharing industry knowledge, discussing workforce needs and providing information about available career pathways.
The program is expected to provide a pathway for Townsville residents looking to gain confidence, improve employability and take the next step towards sustainable employment.
