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Northern Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network

Connecting schools, industry and community, to improve outcome in education, training, and employment for young people.

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Northern Mallee LLEN assists young people to remain engaged in education, training, and employment.

Northern Mallee LLEN is a not-for-profit organisation that works closely with schools, students, and the industry to identify gaps in education and training, provide advice on local and state-wide policy issues at both the strategic and operational level and broker cross sector partnerships to better support young people. Funded by the State Government, Northern Mallee LLEN is one of the 31 LLENs across Victoria that were established in 2001 with the objective of improving career pathways for young people.

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Managed Work Placements

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Work Placement Case Study

Ella, Mildura Specialist School Year 12 student at Work Experience placement with Agromillora Australia.
Host Employer: Agromillora Australia, Mildura
Dates: 17 to 21 November 2025
Student: Ella
School: Mildura Specialist School
Teacher: Paul Trevaskis, Teacher
Placement Role: Horticulture Nursery Trades Assistant
Host Employer Contact: Jessica Moore, Marketing & Customer Relations Support

Ella was identified as work‑experience ready through Mildura Specialist School’s School to Work Program. With support from her coordinator, she selected a horticulture placement via the School to Work Portal. Following consultation between the school, Northern Mallee LLEN and Agromillora, the placement was confirmed. Ella completed a site visit, met staff, and finalised required documentation. Her placement was supported by the school’s ongoing involvement in Northern Mallee LLEN programs, including workplace learning, mock interviews, horticulture immersion and
industry engagement activities.

Student Experience 

Ella successfully completed a five‑day placement, gaining practical skills in nursery operations including potting, watering, soil testing and plant assessment. She developed an understanding of workplace expectations, safety procedures and employability skills, and valued participating in weekly agronomy walks. Ella built professional connections during the placement, leading to discussions about future casual employment. She reported a positive experience and plans to pursuea Certificate in Work Education at SuniTAFE while seeking part‑time work in 2026.

Testimonials

“are-able is proud to support initiatives like the NHMI Program that promote inclusion and remove barriers to participation. By ensuring students have the equipment they need to participate safely, we are helping create equitable opportunities and supporting the development of a capable and confident future workforce.”
Chloe Baron
Chloe BaronArea Manager are-able
“I really enjoyed working outdoors and learning about how land is managed. It helped me feel more confident and showed me different career options I hadn’t thought about before.”
Klara Hatt
Klara HattRobinvale College Year 11
“Since commencing Structured Workplace Learning in Mildura, Klara has been presented with a range of valuable opportunities that have significantly contributed to her personal and career development. She recently completed a placement at SRS, which she thoroughly enjoyed, and has now commenced a new 10-week placement with Phytech. Through these experiences, Klara has gained a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry, including animal management and the increasing role of technology in modern farming practices. These placements have provided her with practical, hands-on learning opportunities and exposure to a variety of career pathways. I have also noticed a significant increase in Klara's confidence as she continues to meet and work alongside new people in professional environments. Twelve months ago, she was a relatively shy young person; however, she has grown considerably and is now much more willing to embrace new opportunities and explore potential pathways beyond school. Her development over the past year has been extremely pleasing to observe, and she should be commended for her willingness to step outside her comfort zone and engage fully in these experiences”.
Julie Kelly
Julie KellyCareers Counsellor / Careers Transition Pathway Officer / VASS Co-ordinator
"Agromillora viewed Ella’s placement very positively, noting her enthusiasm, willingness to learn and engagement in tasks such as soil testing, grading and pest identification. The placement also supported staff mentoring development. Agromillora expressed strong support for the Work Experience Program, highlighting its community value and indicating that Ella would be welcomed back for future employment opportunities".
Jessica Moore,
Jessica Moore,Marketing & Customer Relations Support
"I’m so grateful for the opportunity to complete my work experience at are-able Mildura. It has been such a rewarding week, and everyone I met was so kind, welcoming, and supportive. This experience has truly confirmed that working in the disability support sector is something I’m passionate about, and I’m excited to pursue a career where I can make a positive difference in people’s lives. Thank you to everyone who made this week so special".
Ava Gunn
Ava GunnIrymple Secondary College