Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Program

In the 2024-25 Budget, the Australian Government committed $76.2 million over 5 years to a new voluntary employment services program to improve the economic security of First Nations people transitioning out of the justice system and reestablishing themselves into the community.

About the program

The Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Program will be available to First Nations people, aged 15 years and older, who have been incarcerated, with a known release date, or who are on remand. Support will commence up to 6 months before release and continue for up to 12 months post release.

The REAL Program will focus on personalised mentoring and support to build pathways to employment, education and training opportunities. In addition, the program will facilitate greater connection to culture, Country and language where appropriate. The REAL Program will be progressively rolled out into 2026 in two phases, beginning with an initial grant round for delivery in a cross-section of facilities across states and territories. Broader delivery will occur in Phase 2 and be supported by a future grant opportunity.

How to apply for Phase 1

Grants are now open for eligible organisations to apply for funding to deliver Phase 1 of the REAL Program. The open competitive grants process will be open until 15 September 2025.

The program seeks to build the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled sector, in alignment with Priority Reform Two of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap. The grant opportunity prioritises Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) and other First Nations-led organisations.

Interested organisations are invited to apply for the funding via GrantConnect by 9 pm (AEST) on Monday 15 September 2025.

Consultations

The department conducted consultations in 2023 and 2024 regarding the program’s design. Draft Grant Opportunity Guidelines were released for feedback on 4 March 2025. Submissions closed on 4 April 2025.

Ongoing consultation will occur throughout implementation to ensure the program, including the broader delivery in Phase 2, continues to align with the expectations of stakeholders and the community.

Consultation papers