MAX Employment has found jobs for more than 7,800 unemployed people, in the lead up to Christmas, 2,794 of them in Queensland.

But more employers are needed to find 2,200 more job placements to reach MAX Employment’s target to find 10,000 new job placements across Australia for Christmas as part of their Greatest Gift campaign.

MAXNetWork Managing Director Deborah Homewood said everyone was thrilled with the response to the campaign so far but would continue to work hard to reach their goal.

“Giving someone who is unemployed a job can make a huge impact not only on their life but on the lives of their family as well as the positive outcomes are something that will last long beyond the festive season,” Ms Homewood said.

Ms Homewood said too many families were living in poverty because of unemployment, causing not just financial issues, but serious emotional and mental health problems as well.

“Many of us don’t have to face these challenges so we forget, but think about when you got your first job, or when you were congratulated for a job well done – it is not just about the advantages that come with bringing home a pay cheque but also the improved physical and mental health benefits.

“This is why we are urging employers everywhere to think about whether they have a job opportunity to offer and join us in giving someone the greatest gift.”

To extend the impact of the campaign even further and help more struggling families in the lead up to Christmas, MAX Employment will also be donating $50,000 to Lifeline to celebrate the success, when the 10,000 jobs target is reached.

As part of the Job Services Australia network, MAX Employment offers no cost recruitment services to employers. Employers may also be eligible to receive government financial assistance to help with the cost of hiring and training new employees.

Ms Homewood said ideally MAX Employment would like to find long-term positions, either full-time or part-time, but she said even a seasonal job would provide a job seeker with additional income and provide new skills and experience.

She said the jobs could be across any industry including hospitality, retail, business administration, transport and logistics, trade and the care industry including aged and child care.

“The impact of the campaign already has been great – we have new employees who have told us that getting these jobs has given them their lives back.

“Leigh Billman in Townsville is a perfect example. He has a new job at Pickerings Auto and says already it has turned his life around.

“He told our team that after six years of unemployment, his job would give his family the best Christmas they have ever had.

“Hearing the stories of the differences that this campaign is making is great and our employers feel really proud to be making such a difference, as do we,” Ms Homewood said.

“So if you are an employer and want to get involved, you can register at our website – www.maxjobs.com.au – or freecall 1800 625 350. Together we can make a huge impact giving people the greatest gift for Christmas.”