Every young person deserves a fair shot at finding their place in education and work. For thousands of young Victorians, that shot comes through the Local Learning and Employment Network, and the numbers tell a compelling story.

Three Years. Thousands of Lives Changed.

Between 2023 and 2025, Victoria’s LLEN network facilitated over 15,000 placements and coordinated more than 2,000 events across regional and metropolitan Victoria.

Each number represents a young person who was connected to a structured learning or work opportunity that might otherwise have been out of reach.

The LLEN model exists for a simple but critical reason: some young people fall through the gaps of mainstream education and employment systems. Whether it’s geographic isolation, complex personal circumstances, or simply needing a different kind of support, these young people need advocates, connectors, and pathways. That’s exactly what LLENs provide.

Together, We Are Stronger

The growth across the three-year period is striking. Placements increased from 4,420 in 2023 to 4,603 in 2024, a steady 4% rise, before surging to 6,684 in 2025, a remarkable 45% jump in a single year.

In 2025 we recorded 870 events, a 62% increase reflecting deepening employer partnerships, stronger community engagement, and expanding outreach across the state.

This isn’t growth for its own sake. This growth reflects a network that is responding to real need, driven by increased demand in Vocational Pathways, particularly as youth disengagement and industry volatility continues to shape the landscape for young Victorians.

The People Behind the Numbers

None of this happens without people. A standard LLEN work placement involves one day per week over five weeks, and the employers who make this possible are giving their time voluntarily.

Across the three-year contract period, volunteer hours dedicated to delivering school-to-work programs are estimated at over 500,000 hours. That is an extraordinary expression of community commitment, businesses, organisations, and individuals investing in the next generation, not because they have to, but because they understand what it means for a young person to get hands on experience.

Why This Matters

The LLEN network’s value is most visible in what the numbers represent: young people gaining confidence, skills, and connections. Employers building diverse, engaged pipelines. Communities investing in their own futures.

As we look ahead to a state election this year, the LLEN model offers a proven, scalable approach to youth transition support, one built on genuine partnerships, local knowledge, and a deep commitment to leaving no young person behind.

The Victorian LLEN network operates across regional and metropolitan Victoria, supporting young people to engage with education, training, and employment pathways.