Small business jobs plan for young people

Business groups say making young people work for the dole does not help them find work.

Business groups say making young people work for the dole does not help them find work. (AAP)

Young people who've been out of a job for long periods could work in small businesses under a bipartisan plan from business and community groups.

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Australian Council of Social Services have agreed to do "solid work" together on a jobs program after meeting in a mini-summit on economic reform in Canberra on Thursday.

The program would ensure young people would be equipped with skills, training and experience, chamber chief Kate Carnell told reporters.

Ms Carnell said it was clear work-for-the-dole programs had not proven successful in training young people.

"We need a different approach in the (small business) sector that would give skills, training and experience."

ACOSS chief Cassandra Goldie said details of the program would be worked out soon before being put to government.