30 September 2025
Rous County Council (Rous) is proud to announce it has received $800,000 in funding from the New South Wales (NSW) Government as part of the Fresh Start program – an initiative providing new opportunities for essential skilled roles across the Northern Rivers region.
Through the program, led by the Office of Local Government NSW, local councils across the state are being supported to recruit apprentices, trainees, and cadets. This initiative is helping to cultivate the next generation of local government professionals while contributing to the development of a skilled and sustainable workforce for the future.
Image: Laine and Cassius, On Country Trainees at Rous
Rous has recently recruited two new staff members as part of Round 2 of the Fresh Start program – a Cadet Flood Engineer and a Water Operations Trainee.
Earlier this year, four additional positions were established through $637,000 in funding under Round 1 of the program, including an Apprentice Mechanical Fitter, Apprentice Electrician, and two On Country Trainee roles.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig:
“It’s fantastic to see the Fresh Start program is making a huge difference in almost every corner of the state
“The feedback from councils and recruits who’ve started their careers in local government thanks to this program has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It’s providing more job opportunities for young people in our regions and building the skills base of the local government sector so our councils and county councils can continue their important role providing for NSW communities.”
Julie Davies, People and Culture Manager at Rous, said investing in emerging talent is a privilege that will support the organisation’s long-term goals.
“These six newly created roles further strengthen Rous’ operational capability and regional impact,” said Julie Davies.
“Engaging apprentices, trainees and cadets helps to build a pipeline of future leaders within the organisation, while positioning Rous as an employer of choice within the community.
“Our new recruits will benefit from the guidance of experienced mentors at Rous and gain skills and qualifications that are highly valued in the job market.”
Rous is committed to building a diverse and capable workforce equipped to meet the region’s future needs. The Fresh Start program plays a vital role in supporting that mission, according to Phillip Rudd, General Manager, Rous.
“It is important that we provide pathways into local government through apprenticeships, traineeships and cadetships,” said Phillip Rudd.
“As a regional organisation, it is especially important that we support the Northern Rivers workforce in building capacity for essential roles that directly benefit our community.
“We are fortunate to be in a position to support young recruits as they kickstart their careers at Rous.
“On behalf of Rous, we extend our gratitude to the NSW Government – particularly the Office of Local Government NSW – for the grants that have enabled these six pivotal roles to be embedded into our workforce.”
