The transition from school to work will be made easier for up to 12,000 young people in remote areas through an $89 million Australian Government initiative.

Minister for Indigenous Employment and Economic Development Julie Collins launched the initiative, the Remote Youth Leadership and Development Corps, in Port Hedland today during a three-day visit to Western Australia's Pilbara region.

"This program will provide young people with a clear pathway to employment," Ms Collins said.

"Over a nine to 12-month period, the program will prepare young people up to 25 into real jobs through training, support and work experience.

"With a strong focus on personal development, the Corps will create the community leaders of the future."

Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Bill Shorten said the Corps was a five-year Government commitment.

"The program will focus on providing work experience in jobs that are available in or near the young person's community," Mr Shorten said.

"This could include work in mine regeneration, administration, on farms or stations, in building and maintenance and environmental land management.

"Communities, service providers, employers, governments and local organisations will work together to ensure young graduates gain employment once they complete the program, helping the social and economic development of their remote communities."

The Corps complements the Government's Learn or Earn principles for young people and builds on the success of the Indigenous Rangers program.

The Corps is a key element of the $1.5 billion Remote Jobs and Communities Program, which will significantly improve employment services to people living in remote Australia.

From 1 July 2013 under the Remote Jobs and Communities Program, employment services will be delivered at the coalface in remote communities for the first time, providing personalised support and case management for around 30,000 job seekers in 65 remote regions.