Launching local careers with Bass Coast Jobs and Careers Expo at Phillip Island

IF YOU have ever wondered where a career in local government could take you, look no further than the inspiring individuals paving the way through the Bass Coast Shire Council traineeship program.

Designed to foster local talent and build a resilient regional workforce, this initiative has provided a clear pipeline from education to stable, meaningful employment right here in our own community.

Bass Coast People and Culture Trainee Caitlin recently joined forces with former trainee Ruby at the high-profile Bass Coast Jobs and Careers Expo in Wonthaggi. Ruby’s presence at the event served as a powerful testament to the program's success.

Caitlin and Ruby spent the day engaging with high school students, mature-age job seekers, employment support services, and local training providers. They shared firsthand insights into what it was really like to work for the council and how a structured 12-month traineeship can serve as the launchpad for a long-term professional career.

Bass Coast Shire Council proudly welcomed seven new enthusiastic trainees into its ranks as part of this year’s annual intake. Delivered in close partnership with Westvic Staffing Solutions, the program has offered a highly supportive environment where participants have been able to earn an income while gaining invaluable on-the-job experience.

Simultaneously, the trainees study toward a nationally recognised Certificate III in Business through Integrity Business College. This dual approach has ensured that participants graduate with both the practical skills and the formal qualifications required to thrive in a modern corporate environment.

The sheer variety of career paths available within local government is reflected in the diverse placements of the 2026 cohort. This year’s trainees are embedded across a wide array of specialist departments including Arts, Culture and Heritage, Building Services, Customer and Visitor Experience, Financial Services, Information Technology and Business Systems, People and Culture, and Tourism and Business Development.

Whether you are a school leaver taking your first step into the workforce, a career changer looking for a fresh start, or a local resident searching for a way to give back to your community, the council offers a world of opportunity.

Community members are invited to explore local employment and training pathways at the upcoming Bass Coast Jobs and Careers Expo on Phillip Island.

The upcoming expo serves as a premier hub for job seekers, students, and career changers. It brings together a wide network of local employers, training providers, and industry representatives dedicated to showcasing regional career pathways.

Council's Business in Bass Coast team has organised the event, with key support from internal trainees who have firsthand experience navigating these local career entries.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives from Westvic Staffing Solutions, Council's official traineeship partner.

While applications for the Council's highly anticipated 2027 traineeship intake do not open until early next year, now may be the ideal time for job seekers to research future career opportunities and discover the diverse roles available across the region.