A mother of three who had been out of the workforce for more than a decade is one of 140 Canberra mums who has been given a helping hand to return work through an ACT Government grants program in the 2011-12, Minister for Women Joy Burch said today.

Taryn Verzeilberg had been out of work for 10 years caring for her children but thanks to a Return to Work Grant was able to get back into the workforce by undertaking further study at CIT in her area of interest - community services.

"This grant has given me the opportunity to get back into the workforce with colleagues that are driven and dedicated, and has also given me the confidence to see that I can achieve anything I set my mind to," Ms Verzeilberg said.

Ms Verzeilberg commenced her studies at CIT at the beginning of the year and has just started work with a community organisation, Directions ACT, while she continues her studies. The grant has provided her with the income to cover childcare costs incurred while studying.

Ms Verzeilberg said that the grant had not only helped her move forward but also increased level of self esteem. Due to great results in the first semester she has been offered a scholarship to complete her studies.

"This grant has done more for me and my children than anyone will ever realise."

Minister for Women Joy Burch said that in 2011-12 140 Return to Work grants were issued worth a total of $140,000.

"This program gives women practical, financial support to return to the workforce by providing funding for them to attend short courses, pay for childcare to attend interviews as well as more formal training or education," Ms Burch said.

"I am so pleased that this grant has enabled Ms Verzeilberg to achieve such successful and positive results - what a fantastic outcome."

For more information on the Return to Work Grants visit www.women.act.gov.au