State Budget secures Skilling the Bay to support students’ future pathways in 2027

Member for Geelong Chris Couzens MP said the investment reinforces the Government’s commitment to regional communities and future jobs.

This budget outcome highlights the importance of continuing to support students in the Barwon region to navigate career pathways and vocational education opportunities, Ms Couzens said.

Programs like Skilling the Bay are delivering real results for students, improving engagement and helping young people make informed decisions about their future and that’s why continuing this highly impactful program is a priority for the Government.

Since its establishment in 2012, Skilling the Bay has become a cornerstone initiative supporting workforce development across Geelong, bringing together schools, employers, industry partners and community organisations to strengthen pathways into employment.

Demand continues to grow in line with the region’s economic transformation, particularly across sectors such as health, digital technology, construction, clean energy, manufacturing and tourism. 

In 2025, the program delivered its strongest year yet, engaging 2,355 students from 36 secondary schools, supported by 108 partner organisations delivering real-world career experiences.

The Geelong Tertiary Futures Program reached all 13 government secondary schools, delivering 600 career previews and achieving strong outcomes. This included 95 per cent of students reporting an improved understanding of career options, 87 per cent feeling more motivated to continue their education and 84 per cent gaining skills and confidence for the workforce.

With more than 2,500 students and teachers expected to participate in 2026, the secured funding provides certainty for schools and partners while enabling The Gordon to expand access to career pathway programs, including enhanced career tasters for Year 9 students.

Carley Brennan, Director Engagement and Partnerships at The Gordon, said the funding ensures momentum continues at a critical time for the region.

“This is a really positive budget outcome for our community,” Ms Brennan said.

We are seeing increasing demand from schools and students for meaningful career experiences, and this funding allows us to keep growing a program that is clearly making a difference.

Skilling the Bay helps young people see what’s possible. It connects them to real jobs, real industries and real pathways right here in Geelong and across Victoria.

The Gordon’s Chief Executive Officer, Joe Ormeno welcomed the State Budget commitment and highlighted the role of collaboration in Skilling the Bay’s success.

“At its heart, Skilling the Bay brings together educators, community organisations and industry partners to create meaningful opportunities for people across our region,” Mr Ormeno said.

Through flagship initiatives like the Geelong Tertiary Futures Program and our World of Work programs, Skilling the Bay strengthens pathways, builds capability and gives learners the confidence to navigate education and training options leading to real jobs and experience.

Skilling the Bay is delivered by The Gordon and supported by the Victorian Department of Education. The initiative contributes to School Education - Secondary and Promoting Equal Access to Education outputs and aligns with the Early Intervention Investment Framework.