Chris Crewther (Dunkley, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Last year, I told the House about a brilliant program run in my electorate of Dunkley: the Learn Engage Connect Young Parents Program. This program is run by Chisholm TAFE in conjunction with headspace Frankston and Anglicare, and assists young parents who have previously experienced some disconnect to build new ideas, strategies and techniques to learn and connect with their children.

The structure of a program like this is designed so that education and employment opportunities and outcomes are brought within reach. I was touched that some of the students also wrote me letters about their experience. Abbey said in a letter, 'The fact that I have a chance to finish my schooling is amazing.' Michaela wrote to me about her goal to get her drivers licence and her experience with SalvoCare. Cassie explained how the program got her on track to find employment and a house. She was soon able to finish Year 12. And Candice spoke so eloquently to the room about her experience.

Congratulations to Abbey, Corise, Taylor, Jess, Candice and Katherine, who all returned from the previous year's study, and to this year's new students, Cassie and Michaela. The Learn Engage Connect Young Parents Program is a wonderful initiative and all participants have every right to be proud of their success.