And MP Personnel and Training’s James Smith said most jobless youth who visited the agency were unaware of what was required in the business world.

He said more education in schools about career building would help reduce unemployment.

“We are forever teaching young people how to present themselves and communicate better,” he said.

Mr Smith made the comments after Brotherhood of St Laurence figures released yesterday showed 15.3 per cent of young people in NSW’s Murray region have no work.

“We have a lot of traineeships available and find we have difficulty filling them,” he said.

Mr Smith said some clients were only interested in a specific career or the salary and were unwilling to take any opportunity.

“Only a minority of people will take anything and also show they’re employable,” he said.

Mr James said demand was high for staff in the aged care, disability and drug and alcohol areas.

He young people had to be prepared to do the appropriate training to secure those jobs.

But he said they should realise that it was important for them to invest in their future and take up tertiary studies.

Even if young people got a job in a sector that did not interest them, opportunities would present themselves.

He believed it was vital for young people that they engage in work.

“At a micro level, it’s exceptionally important because it builds their confidence, knowledge and life skills,” Mr Smith said.

“From a community perspective, it gives them a reason to get up every morning.

“It also helps lower crime rates and drug use and other issues.”