National Capacity, Local Expertise – Building the Job Futures Network

Dudley S¹*

1. Job Futures, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Job Futures is an Australian national network of non-profit, community-based organisations specialising in the delivery of employment services. Its unique membership structure harnesses the local capacity of community organisations under the leadership of a large national organisation.

Job Futures was established in 1997 by a small group of not-for-profit employment and training organisations determined to build a national capacity in order to compete in the newly privatised employment services market.

Since then Job Futures’ membership has grown significantly, with strategic additions to membership creating coverage in every state and territory of Australia. By building its expertise and determinedly pursuing new opportunities Job Futures is now one of the country’s largest providers of employment, training and support services.

The Job Futures model is a simple one, combining national capacity with local expertise. Member organisations retain their strong local identity and are distinguished by their links with their communities and a proud history of delivering services to those local communities. The diversity of the membership, which features a number of specialist organisations, reflects Job Futures’ focus on helping those most disadvantaged in the community, including Indigenous Australians, people with disabilities, young people and ex-offenders.

By joining Job Futures and becoming part of a national network the member organisations gain a greater access to resources, business opportunities and ideas. This allows them to improve their effectiveness and develop greater sustainability.
This paper provides an overview of the experience of building the Job Futures network and the applicability of the business model to other markets and communities.

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