The Cessnock to Wine Country Pilot Job Shuttle Program is expected to commence in June 2023 following a resolution at the September Cessnock City Council meeting.

The program promises to connect Cessnock workers with jobs in the vineyards by providing low cost transport between the two destinations seven days per week.

Council has worked with employment agencies, businesses and job seekers to identify the best times and locations for the shuttle service to operate. Following the resolution at this month’s council meeting, Council staff will continue planning the shuttle launch.

Cessnock City Mayor Jay Suvaal said the job shuttle would provide Cessnock residents with easy access to hospitality jobs.

“Lack of access to driver training or a reliable vehicle is a widespread barrier to employment in the Cessnock Local Government Area,” Mayor Jay Suvaal said.

“The program will boost the available workforce and have far reaching benefits that will flow to the entire community.”

The shuttle program contributes to Council’s workforce management strategy, which aims to increase the amount of young people in the local workforce and increase employment opportunities for those with disabilities.

Council has applied for a grant through the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions program to fund the service. If the grant application is successful the shuttle will run between June 2023 and June 2024.