Cessnock City Council investigates viability of 'job shuttle' transport program to vineyards

The idea for a pilot program was tabled by Cr Daniel Watton in a notice of motion at council's April meeting.

Cr Watton, who works in the youth sector, said there has been a "dramatic increase" in hospitality-related job vacancies in the vineyards since COVID restrictions eased, but limited transport options posed a threat to young people hoping to gain ongoing employment in the area.

Cr Watton said the shuttle program would provide a great opportunity for council to address this "significant dilemma", and to build partnerships with community-based organisations and businesses within the LGA.

Council resolved to liaise with and work alongside community-based organisations and businesses to develop and implement a Cessnock to Wine Country pilot job shuttle program, and to research appropriate, relevant grants that may assist local organisations and businesses in facilitating the program.

Council's economic development team has started to investigate viable options to create the program, and will bring a report back to council.

Consultation began with Job Active providers, local businesses and business chambers at its Pokolbin Business Networking Event on June 10, where the economic development team conducted an interactive survey.

This survey has now been released to the community to gauge interest in such a program, and can be found at council's website.

The survey closes Thursday, June 30 at cessnock.nsw.gov.au/Have-your-say.

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