South West Local Learning and Employment Network Inc.

19/05/2026

South West LLEN at the 2026 Moyne Trades Taster.

Last week we were excited to take part in the event with over 50 students from Hawkesdale and Mortlake Colleges attending, learning about different local industries and trying out a range of activities.

Our awesome VIC VICE Virtual Reality (VR) headsets proved very popular. The VIC VICE virtual reality platform allowed users to see, touch and experience different workplaces, virtually.

23/04/2026

Every young person deserves a fair shot at finding their place in education and work. For thousands of young Victorians, that shot comes through the Local Learning and Employment Network!

Over the past three years, more than 15,000 young Victorians have been connected to work and learning opportunities through our network.

None of it happens without the incredible employers across our communities who open their doors and give their time. Over 500,000 volunteer hours. That's extraordinary.

Read more about our impact here: https://www.vicllens.org.au/2026/04/21/how-victorias-llen-network-is-changing-the-game-for-young-people/

02/04/2026

You might’ve heard Jess on air this week 📻
She’s been hanging out with us for work experience, learning the ropes and jumping on the mic like a natural 🎙️

We've loved having you here Jess! ✨

23/03/2026

South West LLEN is extremely grateful for the generous support offered by One Forty One through the PINE community grants program for the Passport To Employment program.

The support of organisations like One Forty One have allowed South West LLEN to run the Passport To Employment program since 2015.

The program empowers students aged 15-18 with a mild or medium disability to further their knowledge, skills and opportunities for employment, further education and training.
The program improves communication and life skills needed for employment, as well as supporting students to explore pathways into further education and how to engage with others in their own community. The program is interactive and introduces all kinds of local industries.

Over the years, South West LLEN has delivered the program to various Colac-Otway, Corangamite, Moyne, and Warrnambool schools.

Since OneFortyOne was founded in Mt Gambier, South Australia in 2012 we have been committed to the communities in which we operate. We are a Trans-Tasman company with offices in Mt Gambier, South Australia, Nelson and Blenheim New Zealand and Melbourne, Victoria.

20/03/2026

LLENs connect students with real workplaces, giving them the chance to explore industries, gain skills, and see what a future career could really look like. From work experience and structured workplace learning to industry tours and projects, these opportunities help young people make informed choices and build confidence before leaving school.

By connecting schools, businesses, and communities, LLENs are opening doors and helping students find the pathways that work for them.

Explore more: vicllens.org.au/students-and-industry

19/03/2026

South West LLEN at the 2026 Careers Expo. Warrnambool

Wonderful feedback from the students.

Our awesome VIC VICE Virtual Reality (VR) headsets proved very popular. The VIC VICE virtual reality platform allowed users to see, touch and experience different workplaces, virtually.

It was also great to be able to assist students with understanding the process involved with setting up a Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) or Work Experience placement.

17/03/2026

For many young people, figuring out career pathways can feel overwhelming.

There are so many options and it’s not always clear how these pathways connect or where to start. For students and families, navigating the system can be confusing.

This is where LLENs play a vital role.

Because we are place-based, we understand our local industries, our schools and the opportunities available for young people in our region. That local knowledge helps turn complex systems into clearer, more accessible pathways.

Find your local LEN via our website: www.vicllens.org.au

11/03/2026

Reviews and conversations about how the system works are important, and they’re a chance to reflect on what is working well and where things can be stronger.

One thing we know is that work-based learning is most effective when the system is simple, connected and easy for young people, families and schools to navigate.

This is exactly where LLENs play an important role. With more than 20 years of local knowledge and strong partnerships across education, industry and community, LLENs help connect the dots.

At the end of the day, it’s about making sure the system works better for young people.

05/03/2026

South West LLEN at the 2026 Careers Expo. Warrnambool

Our awesome VIC VICE Virtual Reality (VR) headsets proved very popular. The VIC VICE virtual reality platform allowed users to see, touch and experience different workplaces, virtually.

It was also great to be able to assist employers and students with understanding the process involved
with setting up a Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) or Work Experience placement.

Thanks to the Neil Porter Legacy for organising such a well run event.

05/03/2026

We need your voice!

We need your voice!

The future of work-based learning in Victoria is being reviewed, and this is a real chance to make the system stronger, more connected and more equitable for young people.

If you've worked with LLENs and value our work, we’d love you to take a few minutes to complete the Engage Victoria survey. Your on-the-ground experience helps highlight what’s working, what needs to change and why the LLEN Network makes a critical difference.

We know the best pathways happen when communities work together. With the right coordination, support and long-term investment, every young person can access quality workplace learning opportunities. We want to continue that work.

Have your say and help shape the future of Work Based Learning: https://engage.vic.gov.au/work-experience