Steps, which has 14 branches throughout Queensland and the NT, was launched last week by Member for Barkly, Gerry McCarthy.

Services delivered from the local office will include a disability and employment network, training and youth engagement programs.

Site manager Le-Anne Cartwright said the move had already received widespread community support.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response to our services and we have already had a significant number of referrals,” she said.

“Clearly, the services we provide are in great demand here.”

Disability Employment Network clients are assisted to maximise their potential and to gain meaningful employment where further on-the-job support is provided.

Steps Training delivers literacy, numeracy and Home and Community Care training however as a registered training organisation the scope of packages available is quite varied.

Youth Pathways helps young people aged between 13 and 19 years old to stay engaged in the education system.

Individual support is offered to achieve positive outcomes and to ensure they get through school and move on to further education, training or employment.

The office is located at Shop 1, 163 Paterson Street (next to Top of the Town café) which is where the launch was held last Wednesday evening.

Steps General Manager for Employment, John Conway, travelled to Tennant Creek for the occasion.

Five staff members are currently employed at the office although there are already plans to expand.