Reconnection, Employment and Learning (REAL) Program Phase 2

The Australian Government is inviting organisations via an open process to apply to deliver services under Program 1.1 Employment Services from 2026 to 2030. In the 2024–25 Budget, the Australian Government committed $76.2 million over 5 years to improve the economic security of First Nations people transitioning out of the justice system and reestablishing themselves in the community. The REAL Program builds on the Time to Work Employment Service and aims to improve outcomes for First Nations people exiting the justice system by providing support to reestablish themselves in the community. The Program offers pre-release, and post-release supports to help people to reintegrate into their communities and engage with employment, education and training. In addition, the Program will facilitate connection to culture, Country and language, where appropriate. The Program responds to extensive consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations, communities and evidence on how to improve support in the transition from the justice system to employment. Phase 1 of the Program commenced earlier this year in a cross section of facilities.