Feds expand summer job subsidy for students

The latest job numbers show that Greater Victoria, at 3.7%, continues to have one of the lowest unemployment rates in Canada. The average rate across the country for May was 7%. However, the rate for students ages 15 to 24 was 20.1%. It’s increased steadily each year from a low of 11.4% in May 2022.

To help, the federal government is reallocating $25 million from internal funds to subsidize an additional 6,000 summer jobs on top of the 70,000 already supported by the Canada Summer Jobs program.

“From now until July 21, young job seekers between the ages of 15 and 30 can find local job opportunities on the Job Bank website and mobile app,” a media release from Employment and Social Development Canada stated. “Youth can apply for summer jobs in fields that interest them, such as the recreation sector, the food industry and marketing and tourism. Jobs are also available in a variety of high-demand and growing fields, including housing construction and environmental protection.”