Primary Partnerships Program

Background

The Primary Partnerships Program, funded and supported by the Ministry for Primary Industry, was initiated to address labour shortages and resourcing challenges in rural New Zealand communities. The program focused on gathering local perspectives through informal community events in Gore, Oamaru, Nelson, and Greymouth.

Key Statistics

1. Employment Outcomes:
   • 106 individuals placed into full-time, long-term employment
   • 96 out of 106 (90.6%) individuals still employed after 3 months
2. Identified Vacancies:
   • 136 urgent full-time current vacancies
   • 290 seasonal and part-time roles
   • 11 apprenticeship opportunities
3. Event Participation:
   • four successful events held in Gore, Oamaru, Nelson, and Greymouth
   • Participation from local mayors, district councils, and community organisations

Challenges Identified

1. Labor Shortages: Employers reported difficulty finding suitable candidates for open positions.
2. Post-Employment Support: There is an urgent demand for support, particularly for young people and those with additional barriers.
3. Equipment Funding: There is a need for financial assistance to provide tools and equipment for new starters.
4. Education-Employment Gap: Lack of understanding among young people about job realities and work expectations.

Program Approach

The Primary Partnerships Program adopted a unique approach by:

1. Creating informal, community-driven events
2. Facilitating open discussions between employers, community groups, and local government
3. Focusing on local issues and solutions
4. Providing post-employment support for both employers and employees

Outcomes and Impact

1. Employment Success: 90.6% retention rate after 3 months, significantly higher than traditional placement programs.
2. Community Engagement: Strong positive participant feedback, including local government officials and employers.
3. Network Building: Established connections between employers, community support organisations, and local government.
4. Holistic Support: Addressed employment placement, ongoing support, and retention.

Conclusion

The Primary Partnerships Program demonstrated a successful model for addressing rural employment challenges. The program achieved high placement and retention rates by focusing on community-driven solutions and providing comprehensive support through and with the community. The approach of bringing together diverse stakeholders in informal settings proved effective in identifying and addressing local labour market issues.