Supporting Yarra locals seeking work in the retail industry
Yarra City Council is offering a free, hands-on program that assists people to build practical skills and prepare for employment in the retail industry.
Delivered through Council’s Learning Bank in Richmond, the Retail Ready program provides guided learning, real-world retail exposure and job-readiness support for people who may be facing barriers to employment.
The program supports Council’s priorities around employment pathways, social inclusion and building an inclusive local economy.
What the program includes
Retail Ready brings together practical learning and real-world experience across a series of guided sessions, including:
Introduction to retail and customer service, covering workplace expectations and how the retail industry operates.
Practical retail skills, such as store presentation, merchandising and communication, with hands-on learning in a community clothing hub.
Employer engagement, including a visit to Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre and opportunities to meet retail managers and hear about retail career pathways.
Job application and interview skills, with résumé, cover letter and interview preparation.
Participants can also select an interview or work outfit from the Thread Together Clothing Hub, receive a Certificate of Participation, and access ongoing support and retail opportunities.
An unpaid volunteer shift in the Thread Together Clothing Hub may be offered to participants who wish to gain further practical experience.
Retail Ready has been designed for people who are interested in working in retail and would benefit from structured training and guided employment preparation.
Referral agencies are encouraged to refer clients who may benefit from a supported pathway into retail employment.
What participants say
Participants have highlighted the practical skills, support and confidence they gained through Retail Ready.
“This course exceeded my expectations. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to gain valuable skills, support and confidence,” one participant said.
Another participant said the interview outfit they received through the program would also help them feel more confident when applying for work.
“I’m completely in love with the whole outfit which should help with my interview confidence! I’ve never owned such a good interview outfit my whole life!”
Retail Ready is offered through The Learning Bank, with registrations open for upcoming intakes.