An aged care training program delivered by the Australia Pacific Training Coalition was recently held at Lemakot in New Ireland Province. The training was organized by the Papua New Guinea Labour Mobility Unit (LMU). A big Congratulations to the 23 Papua New Guineans who have successfully completed their three-weeks aged care training program which saw 20 out of the participants secured job offers in Australia. APTC partners with LMU to train PNG workers to meet Australian employers’ workforce demands under the PALM Scheme, where there are not enough Australian workers to fill this demand. Participants from Manus, East New Britain, and New Ireland honed their skills through a curriculum aligned with key components of the Australian Certificate III Individual Support (Ageing) qualification. The course gives participants important skills and knowledge in caring for others, so they are informed and well prepared to work in the aged care sector in Australia and in their communities. Team Leader for the East New Britain participants, Colleen Olpitarea, expressed gratitude on behalf of the group, explaining the impact the training has had on each of them. “The training covers essential areas like communication, working effectively with diverse people, and upholding legal and ethical practices in caregiving and we are grateful for the opportunity as it has enabled us to be work-ready for future employment opportunities.” Also, a fellow participant, Ms. Colin John, a nurse by profession, was also thankful for the opportunity to build on his skills. “This program broadened my understanding of aged care and individual support,' she said. “I feel confident taking on this new challenge and contributing to a quality experience in the aged care sector in my community.” Since 2007, APTC has trained more than 6400 Papua New Guineans, enabling them to advance in their TVET careers. Among them are 36 women and five men who have been trained in aged care, sharing their skills and knowledge within PNG and internationally. APTC is an Australian Government initiative in partnership with the Pacific and Timor-Leste.