Approved Non-Government Programs (NGP)

A Non-Government Program (NGP) is a training and work experience activity approved by the Department (the department) that individuals can undertake to increase their skills and employability. NGPs are work-focused programs or vocational interventions run by community and private sector organisations. NGP’s should have a high likelihood of securing sustainable employment for participants who are referred to the placement.

On this page:

Who can deliver a Non-Government Program?

Community and private enterprise organisations (Host Organisations) that have work-focused pathway programs that meet the eligibility and evaluation criteria outlined in the NGP Submission and Assessment Guide can apply to the department for approval of their program.

A related entity of a Workforce Australia Services or a Workforce Australia - Transition to Work Provider cannot apply to host a NGP.

What does this mean for my Non-Government Program?

If your NGP is approved by the department, a Workforce Australia Services or Workforce Australia - Transition to Work provider will be able to refer participants to your program. The provider will assess if the NGP is suitable and safe for participants prior to referral. The participation of the participant in your program can contribute to their points credit under the Points Based Activation System or Participation Requirements.

What does my organisation need to demonstrate to obtain approval for my program?

Once an application has been received, the department will assess the application on a case-by-case basis using the criteria described in the Submission and Assessment Guide.

To be granted the approved status, the following three evaluation criteria must be met:

  1. The NGP has a demonstrated ability to, or high likelihood of, directly assisting participants to move into sustainable work during the program or upon completion.
  2. If the NGP has any training component, the training component(s) included are vocational (preferably accredited);
  3. The NGP does not duplicate the services required under the Workforce Australia Deeds found on the Workforce Australia Resources page.

Will Workforce Australia Services or Workforce Australia - Transition to Work Providers be required to refer participants to approved Non-Government Programs?

Providers are not required to refer participants to approved NGPs but may do so where they consider the program is suitable and the participant will benefit from participating in the program. If there are costs involved with the program, the providers must ensure the program represents value for money and meets Departmental guidelines.

Any community or private enterprise organisation considering setting up a new program may like to discuss their proposed ideas with providers in the relevant region.

What does it mean if my program gets approved?

Workforce Australia Services or Workforce Australia - Transition to Work Providers are able to consider approved NGPs when considering the most suitable activity for a participant. Participants will be able to participate in a NGP at any time during servicing.

How can my organisation apply?

To apply to have your NGP assessed by the department, you can download the NGP Approval Application Form and the NGP Submission and Assessment Guide, which provides detailed information on the application process for approval of NGPs by the department

Want more information?

Where should the completed application be sent?

Completed application forms must be submitted to NGPs@dewr.gov.au for assessment.