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This document reports on a project that looked at the conditions under which older unemployed Australians, with low prior education, can secure success through education and training. The objectives of the study were: to inform policy and programs designed to improve the labour market participation of people in the target group; and to identify features of existing education and training including best practice which if implemented in future programs will encourage people in the target group to undertake and persist with education and training. The investigation confirmed that securing success for mature unemployed adult learners who are disadvantaged in the labour market requires five key features. These are: an initial education experience in a safe environment; negotiation with learners in content, format and timing of educational experiences; the use of social cohesion and a focus on learner interests to motivate learners; a learner focused approach to learning; and innovation and flexibility in organisations. The study demonstrated that, given the implementation of the five key features, initial involvement in non-accredited community adult education programs can provide the pathway towards active learning for people in the target group.