The Welcome Experience Expands into Western Riverina

A warm welcome to Maryann Lanelli who has come on board with the expansion phase of the Welcome Experience in the Riverina and has taken the position as the Local Welcomer for Leeton.

Since the launch in of the pilot in June 2023 through to the expansion of The Welcome Experience in the Riverina, the team have made a massive impact. We have helped over 100 essential workers settle into their new regional home in Griffith and Leeton by helping them find housing, childcare, employment opportunities for partners and making introductions to community organisations and locals.

In Griffith new teachers to Marian Catholic College were concierged into community and medical students welcomed during February. All new arrivals have been presented with Welcome Experience Kits packed with local services, amenities and all the information they need to live and connect with the Griffith Community. This service continues to support the delivery of a skilled and robust essential workforce in our region, paving the way for stronger, more resilient communities.

Veterinary workers - including vets, vet nurses, vet technicians and their families can now access The Welcome Experience program in 55 local government areas across the region. The Welcome Experience is part of the $25.1 million Essential Worker Attraction Program, which aims to boost essential workforces in the regions and includes the Make the Move advertising campaign.

To find out more about The Welcome Experience and the exciting opportunities that await those considering a move to the regions, visit www.nsw.gov.au/regional-nsw/welcome-experience.

Minister for Regional NSW, Tara Moriarty said:

“The inquiry into the Veterinary Workforce Shortage highlighted key challenges facing regional veterinarians, including the need to travel long distances, difficulty finding suitable housing, and a lack of mentorship for new graduates.”

“These challenges mirror those faced by firefighters, who often relocate to regional areas where stable housing and community connections are critical for workforce retention”

Minister for Regional NSW.