Show transcript
Hi, my name's Nat and this is Tiffany and we're from Base Services.
The Basement soup kitchen's been operating since 1993, and so for the last 20 last years, Tiff and I have been serving at the soup kitchen.
And we work with people facing difficult circumstances such as homelessness, drug addiction, family breakdown and mental health.
Around 2016, we came up with this idea to start a second shot programme.
So we partnered with the Queensland Government, Skilling Queenslanders for Work program to offer a Certificate I in Hospitality.
And now people like coming for a meal, but then they end up doing it front each ship and serving someone else's milk.
And what's even better is that they go on to work somewhere else.
We've had over 300 people do our traineeship program now.
We've seen 273 go on to further work.
And one of the things we're most passionate about is that we've actually seen 97 people exiting homelessness.
So giving time a paid traineeship actually helps them to be able to afford accommodation.
And we work with people with different barriers to employment or learning, that might be a young person who's exiting care, someone coming from a non-English speaking background.
We are so grateful for the opportunity we take to partner with the Queensland Government Skilling Queenslanders for Work programme because it's not about just filling in people's time and putting a band aid.
It's actually a six month intense program where you really get to work with someone and change their lives because we believe that everyone deserves a second shot.
The Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiative is changing lives and creating real employment opportunities across Queensland!
By providing the essential skills, confidence, and hands-on experience needed for meaningful jobs, Skilling Queenslanders for Work is paving the way for a brighter future.
Base Services Inc: A story of hope and opportunity
One of the shining stars from 2025 is Base Services Inc, a Toowoomba-based organisation making a huge difference in the lives of people experiencing challenges. Recognised as the 2025 Queensland Training Awards Community Initiative of the Year, Base Services is empowering individuals by helping them gain the skills they need to build a brighter future.
Through the support of Skilling Queenslanders for Work, Base Services delivers accredited hospitality training in a unique and supportive environment. Participants not only develop valuable skills and real-world experience but also discover renewed confidence and purpose. This project is transforming lives while addressing the growing demand for skilled workers in Queensland’s hospitality industry.
With investment across Queensland, Skilling Queenslanders for Work is backing training and employment projects that meet local workforce needs, boost confidence, and open doors to lasting employment opportunities in high-demand industries like health, hospitality, and construction.
A program for every Queenslander
Skilling Queenslanders for Work is all about inclusion and opportunity. It’s for everyone, regardless of their background, supporting people to overcome barriers and pressures, and build a better tomorrow.
Take the next step
If you’re looking for help entering the workforce or restarting your career, then Skilling Queenslanders for Work can help you succeed.
For community organisations, this is your chance to deliver impactful training and employment projects that support individuals, strengthen communities, and build Queensland’s workforce of the future.
Your story could make a difference! To learn more, apply for funding, or share your success story, visit www.qld.gov.au/skillingqueenslanders.
Let’s work together to create opportunities and celebrate achievements that inspire all of Queensland.
Last updated 11 February 2026
