Jobs Victoria is working with major supermarkets including Coles, Woolworths and Aldi, as well as wholesaler Metcash, to link job seekers with food suppliers and reduce critical workforce shortages.
The program started earlier this month and has already had an overwhelming response with more than 2,000 people expressing interest in the roles on offer.
“We want to keep food on the supermarket shelves and Victorians in jobs – and this program does both,” Victorian premier Daniel Andrews said.
“This rapid response to workforce issues along the supply chain will help minimise disruptions to the food and essentials Victorians rely on, which is critical as we navigate Omicron.”
The roles that are available include pick-packers to assemble online orders, night-fillers to re-stock shelves, cashiers, delivery drivers and forklift operators.
Roles are available for anyone looking for work, especially those whose employment has been heavily affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Employers will provide any training needed, including induction and occupation health and safety (OH&S).
Jobs Victoria is streamlining the hiring process by undertaking initial screening support to get people on the job as soon as possible.
The Victorian state government will also begin distributing 25,000 rapid antigen tests on a cost recovery basis to critical utilities and food supply chain services, including meat and poultry suppliers.
The $250 million Jobs Victoria Fund is supporting businesses with wage subsidies and large-scale employment programs.
Other Jobs Victoria services include a 600-person-strong force of advocates, mentors and career counsellors to help people in their job hunt.
Jobseekers across Victoria are encouraged to sign up to the Jobs Victoria Online Hub to express interest in these vital roles by visiting jobs.vic.gov.au.