Are you aged 15-24 and keen for some hands on work experience? 

We would love you to join our crew of Troublesmiths for our 8 week work experience program.

Our team is here to help you build skills for life and work - at your own pace. Together we will create a plan, set some goals, and start achieving them. One step at a time.

Ready to take the next step towards your future? 

Apply NOW for the next intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Troublesmiths?

Troublesmiths is the name given to our eight week program. Our mission is to help young people get jobs, or empower them to enroll in further study. We are a retail business that facilitates a job readiness program. We provide access to work skills training and first-hand experience running a retail store. Participants acquire valuable work experience, learn to make and market handmade products, and build their career confidence.

Who is the program for?

The program is designed to empower and encourage young Tasmanians to become great employees. We work with participants to build their confidence and work skills. We provide work experience so they feel ready to apply for a job or further their education. We can also connect you with local businesses and provide limited leadership training opportunities.

How much does it cost? 

The program is free thanks to funding from the Tasmanian Government and Workskills Tasmania.  

How long does the program run for and what’s the commitment?

The Troublesmiths program runs for eight weeks. Participants must commit to two and half days per week. This involves two shifts at our Hobart shop per week; Monday-Thursday 9am-3pm, and one workshop shift on Friday from 9am-12pm. Time needed to work on job applications is embedded into the daily structure of your store shifts. 

What are the entry requirements? 

Like every program, course or service there are entry requirements. We assess things like; program capacity, your availability, your commitment to and willingness to work and/or study, your capacity to engage with program expectations and activities.

I have existing commitments; can I still apply? 

Yes. Fill out the expression of interest form so that we can assess whether your availability is suitable for the program. Please note we have limited flexibility around shift work and will be looked at on a case by case basis. 

Can I do the program if I’m still at school?*

Anyone who is under the age of 18 requires an education exemption to participate in the Troublesmiths program.

Yay I got in! What do I do now? 

Hang tight and wait for the instructions about induction week. Make sure you are connected on socials - Facebook and Instagram @Troublesmiths. Start thinking about your resume and cover letter, or what kinds of jobs, or study you may be interested in.

What do I do if my application is unsuccessful?  

We will still give you a hand by providing you with information for suitable services to approach. 

 What kind of products do you make and sell?

We make a range of homewares and body care products. In our retail store, our Smiths make hand poured 100% soy candles, cold-pressed soap from raw ingredients, a selection of nourishing hair, beard and massage oils, natural lip balms, moisturising hand salve, beeswax wraps and custom hampers and gift packs. Every product that we produce is manufactured by hand in precise small batches, by young Tasmanians.

What happens at the end of the program?

At Troublesmiths, we have a saying; once a ‘Smith, always a ‘Smith. Upon completion of the program, our community comes together to celebrate our ‘Smiths achievements at a Troublesmiths Graduation event at the end of week 8.

After Graduation, we offer what is called Post Program Support for 6 months (we still offer support to any Troublesmiths Alumni, even years after they Graduate!). Which means, we are still here to support and guide young people along their employment and study journey.

Many Troublesmiths Alumni continue to come into Troublesmiths to study, complete job applications, or just pop in for a chat.