Our Story
Troublesmiths is a unique retail business that offers hands-on job readiness training for young Tasmanians.
We recognise and nurture the brilliance in young people, equipping them with the tools and experiences they need to thrive in both work and life.
By supporting Troublesmiths—whether by visiting our store or purchasing our products—you’re directly contributing to the growth, confidence, and wellbeing of Tasmania’s next generation.
Outcome Snapshot 2022-24
325 Young people have been supported to achieve their goals
75,162 Hours of hands-on work experience provided
65% Of young people experience an increase in their confidence
75% Go on to employment or training soon after completing the program
What's in a name?
Trouble: Everyone faces trouble somewhere along the road. The young people in the Troublesmiths program are no different. What sets them apart is their resilience and determination to transform obstacles into opportunities. Some may have struggled with literacy or numeracy, others with the demands of early parenthood, mental health challenges, or barriers to obtaining something as essential as a driver’s license. Each story is unique, yet all share the courage to turn these challenges into building blocks for their future.
Smith: The word “Smith” represents a craftsman; someone who can shape and refine even the hardest materials into something remarkable. At Troublesmiths, our young people are doing just that: taking the ‘trouble’ life has handed them and forging it into something beautiful and worthwhile. Like a master artisan, each Smith hones their own abilities, gaining strength, pride, and confidence in the process.
Too often, young people are misjudged, labeled as "troublemakers". We see past the stereotypes. We see young people with dreams, ambition, and untapped potential waiting for a chance to shine. In Tassie we have a rapidly aging population. It’s essential that we harness the energy, fresh perspectives, and unique insights of these young people. Their resilience and resourcefulness are key to a thriving future.
We need their talents in our workforce now more than ever.
The name "Troublesmiths" is a bold, playful nod to skeptics and cynics alike, proudly declaring that these young people are not only masters of their craft, but architects of their own futures. Our Smiths carry this title with pride, saying to the world: “Against the odds, I made it happen.”
Troublesmiths is delivered by Workskills Tasmania with support from the Tasmanian Government.
