Non-Government Programs (NGPs)

NGPs are work-focused programs or vocational interventions approved by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (the department) that help Employment Services Program Participants increase their skills and employability. NGPs should have a high likelihood of securing sustainable employment for participants who are referred to the Program.

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 NGP Host Organisation Eligibility and the Evaluation Criteria as outlined in the NGPs Submission Guide can deliver approved NGPs.

Current Workforce Australia Employment Services Providers or related entities/subcontractors of these Providers cannot apply to host a NGP.

How can my organisation apply?

To apply to have your program assessed by the department, you can download and submit a NGPs Application Form. Detailed information on the application and submission process is provided in the accompanying NGPs Submission Guide.

Completed application forms must be submitted to the department via email to NGPs@dewr.gov.au.

Non-Government Programs Application Form

Created:
Modified:

Application form for community and private sector organisations to apply to have their work-focussed program approved by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as a suitable activity for individuals to participate in.

Note: Please download a copy of this form and save it before filling it in. Completing it in online may prevent the form from saving information entered.

View the publication details page
Non-Government Programs - Application Form.pdf

Non-Government Programs Submission Guide

Created:
Modified:

This guide has been developed to support the submission of applications from organisations seeking the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (Department) assessment of their work-focussed program as an approved Non-Government Program (NGP).

View the publication details page
Non-Government-Programs - Application Submission Guide.pdf

What is required for my program to be approved as a NGP?

Submitted applications will be assessed by the department against the Host Eligibility Criteria and the following four Evaluation Criteria, together with other information provided in the application.

  1. The NGP receives no government funding.
  2. The NGP has a demonstrated ability to, or high likelihood of, directly assisting participants to move into sustainable work during or on completion of the program;
  3. If the NGP has any training component, the training component(s) included are vocational (preferably accredited);
  4. The NGP does not duplicate the services required of Providers under the various Workforce Australia Deeds.

Any community or private enterprise organisation considering setting up a new program may wish to discuss their proposed ideas with providers in the relevant region prior to submitting an NGP application form to the Department.

What does it mean if my program is approved as a NGP?

If your application is approved by the department, Workforce Australia Services or Workforce Australia – Transition to Work Providers can consider approved NGPs when determining the most suitable activity for a participant. The provider will assess if the NGP is suitable and safe for participants prior to referral. Participation in an NGP also contributes to an individual’s points credit under the Points Based Activation System or counts towards their Participation Requirements.

Will Employment Services Providers be required to refer participants to approved NGPs?

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, providers must ensure the program represents value for money and meets Departmental guidelines.

The Department does not guarantee any participant referrals to an NGP should it be approved.

Want more information?