Josh spurred on by next steps
Sixteen-year-old Army Cadet, Josh, lives in a Housing Choices property in Southern Tasmania, with his dad Julian. When a brand-new unit became available after a period of housing insecurity, they jumped at the opportunity.
Their home tells the tale of their strong military history. Josh’s grandfather and dad were both members of the Australian Army, as well as 15 other family members who served in World War One. When Josh finishes school, he hopes to continue the family legacy and join the Australian Army as a Heavy Vehicle Mechanic or Infantryman. He’s taking part in a course at his local college which focuses on restoring vehicles for students to use once they get their P plates. Housing Choices Tasmania has supported Josh to take part in the course through the Next Steps Incentive by supplying essential tools. The positive e ects go beyond the practical skills learnt said his dad, Julian: “Joshua’s health and wellbeing is at its best when he has structure and is kept busy and engaged. The college provides smaller classes, with one-on-one support. To enjoy his time as a student this is really important… It will keep him engaged in learning.
“I hope other families know about this program, so that they can get this support too.”
The Next Steps Incentive is o ered to Housing Choices Tasmania residents aged between 15 and 25 and assists young residents taking the next steps in their lives by providing support for further education or training to build job skills. Up to $1000 is available for out-of-pocket expenses such as uniforms, equipment, textbooks, tutoring or extra learning activities. In 2022-23, Josh was one of five residents selected to participate in the Next Steps Incentive, with support ranging from an iPad with assistive technology to laptops for university study.
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Housing Choices Australia Group
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