Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (M.T.F.J.) Initiative in Waitaki, New Zealand

Background

The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (M.T.F.J.) initiative was launched in Waitaki to address labour shortages in the rural economy and build resilience through training and upskilling. The program focused on supporting young people aged 16 to 24 and others not in education, employment, or training (NEET), particularly those facing additional barriers to employment. Our sister company, Workbridge Employment Services, supported the Waitaki Regional Council in delivering this project.

Objectives

1. Place young people and individuals with barriers into sustainable jobs
2. Upskill and support individuals transitioning from school or specialist support into the workforce
3. Provide additional resourcing for pastoral care needs

Implementation

The M.T.F.J. initiative in Waitaki involved:

1. Community engagement through informal gatherings
2. Supporting business directly, addressing time and resourcing issues
3. Developing meaningful long-term relationships with the council and local businesses
4. Training and upskilling programs
5. Ongoing pastoral care and support

Waitaki-specific Outcomes

1. Community Engagement: Successfully organised multiple community gatherings, bringing together local business owners, employers, and community groups.
2. Identification of Labor Shortages: The initiative effectively identified critical labour shortages in the Waitaki district.
3. Employment Placements: The program successfully sourced and placed new employees to fill identified gaps in the local workforce.
4. Support for NEET Individuals: Provided targeted support and opportunities for NEET individuals and those facing barriers to employment.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Rural Labor Shortages: The initiative addressed this challenge by leveraging local resources and networks through community-driven approaches.
2. Barriers to Employment: The program provided targeted support, including pastoral care and upskilling opportunities, to help individuals overcome barriers to gaining and maintaining employment.

Conclusion

The M.T.F.J. initiative in Waitaki demonstrated a successful model for addressing rural employment challenges, particularly for young people and those facing barriers to employment.

The program reduced youth unemployment and NEET rates in the region by focusing on community engagement, targeted support, and addressing local labour market needs.

The success of this initiative aligns with the broader national achievements of the M.T.F.J. program, which has helped place over 1,300 young people into employment, education, or training opportunities across New Zealand. The management and development of community assets significantly increased community engagement, and targeted support likely contributed to improving employment outcomes for young people in the region, helping to address the national NEET rate of 10.9% for 15-24-year-olds.