- Published:
- Friday 28 March 2025
Students across Victoria will gain real-world skills through hands-on learning, mentoring, and leadership programs, thanks to support from the Allan Labor Government.
Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman today announced the recipients of the Future Ready 2025/26 program, which provides grants of up to $56,000 to public secondary schools and up to $168,000 for not-for-profit organisations that deliver programs in multiple schools.
From career exploration and mentoring to work placements, volunteering, and accredited training courses, students will gain real-world experience and valuable support through Future Ready.
The program is designed to reach and uplift students who might not otherwise have access to these crucial opportunities.
Recipients this year include the Pavillion School at Charles La Trobe College which will run Yarning on Country, a program that celebrates Indigenous art, dance, language and includes a First Nations camp.
Colac Specialist School will help students with disability turn ideas into action, creating and running their own micro-business, which will develop their literacy, numeracy and life skills.
In Melbourne’s west, Keilor Downs College will deliver a hands-on program to build better learning, using a strengths-based approach to support students’ aspirations and planning for the future.
From Maribyrnong to Bayside, Wodonga to Glenelg, Future Ready programs span Victoria’s local governments areas, ensuring students across the state get the support they need to achieve their goals.
Programs start from Term 2, 2025. For more information, or to see a full list of the Future Ready 2025/26 program recipients visit vic.gov.au/future-ready-grants.
Quote attributable to Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman
“We’re investing in young Victorians because they are the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow. Programs like Future Ready give them support to develop the skills and confidence to succeed.”
Quote attributable to Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll
“Building a life-long love of learning is so important, that’s why we’re delivering programs that connect young people with mentors, training, and leadership experiences.”
Quote attributable to Keilor Downs College Principal Gerard Fauvrelle
“We trust in the talent and potential of our youth. By empowering every student with the right opportunities today, we are shaping a stronger, more successful future for all.”