Tanti Park Social Enterprises
The problem
Despite the Mornington Peninsula’s thriving tourism and hospitality sectors, it has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in Australia. Limited access to reliable public transport, a mismatch between the skills needed by employers and those possessed by job seekers, and socioeconomic barriers that hinder many young people from finding meaningful employment all contribute to the broader issue.
The hospitality industry on the Mornington Peninsula consistently has around 200 unfilled positions, which highlights a significant skills gap. Many young people lack the practical, hands-on experience and soft skills necessary for these roles. Additionally, socioeconomic barriers such as inadequate training opportunities, low self-belief, and a lack of supportive networks further exacerbate the unemployment issue. This situation not only limits the growth potential of the local hospitality industry but also places many young people at risk of long-term economic and social disadvantages.
our solution
Tanti Park Social Enterprises, including the HomeGround initiative, work directly with the community of Tanti Park to address youth unemployment on the Mornington Peninsula, and provide meaningful employment pathways in the hospitality industry. HomeGround provides an on-the-job traineeship focusing on at-risk youth who face barriers to traditional employment pathways. Since its inception, HomeGround has successfully supported over 120 young people, equipping them with essential skills in customer service, food handling, leadership, and more.
Beyond the traineeship, Tanti Park Social Enterprises invests in the broader community through a number of initiatives. These include providing home cooked meals, a food bank, and running programs through the ‘Tanti Community House’ which empower community members and foster a sense of belonging and engagement.
As a foundational and ongoing partner, The Cup That Counts has contributed significantly to the success of Tanti Park Social Enterprises, donating over $145,000 of coffee and offering more than $20,000 of direct financial support. This has enabled the sustainable operation of the HomeGround cafe, procurement of essential equipment, and provision of training programs, ensuring that Tanti Park Social Enterprises can continue to create meaningful opportunities and foster community development.