Those interested in the Aboriginal Cadetship program should apply on the NT Government’s jobs website before applications close on 21 January 2024. Photo: NT Health.
Applications are now open for NT Health’s 2024 Aboriginal Cadetship Program, which aims to support First Nations health students in completing their higher education.
Since its establishment in 2020, six Aboriginal Territorians have graduated from the program and now work in health professions, including nursing, midwifery, psychology and speech pathology.
The 17 students awarded the cadetship so far have been provided with a study allowance, book allowance, incentive payments and a minimum of 12 weeks paid employment during university breaks.
It’s hoped the students will use their professional health qualifications and experience upon completion of their studies through a placement within NT Health.
Aboriginal students undertaking their first undergraduate degree or postgraduate studies are eligible for the program, which aims to increase Indigenous representation in the health workforce.
NT Chief Minister and Minister for Health Natasha Fyles said the successful delivery of high-quality health services for all Territorians relies on a trained Aboriginal workforce.
“We need more Aboriginal Territorians in frontline health environments, and this programs is designed to support that, ultimately delivering a better patient experience across the Territory,” she said.
In the 2021 Census of Population and Housing, the Northern Territory had the highest absolute difference between the rate of Indigenous Australians in health-related occupations and non-Indigenous Australians (166 compared with 742 per 10,000).
According to NT Health, Aboriginal people represent approximately 70 per cent of consumers in their public hospital services.
The Territory Government is pushing to increase Aboriginal representation in the workforce so it can provide more culturally safe and accessible healthcare to the Indigenous community.
The Northern Territory Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner Excellence Awards (the awards) have been held since 2006. Photo: NT Health.
NT Health also recently celebrated the recipients of the 2023 NT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker and Practitioner Excellence awards.
The annual acknowledgement of First Nations healthcare workers held on 8 December handed out awards to health professionals from Maningrida, Katherine, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek and Darwin.
The winners spanned across 10 categories of awards honouring students, specialists, and urban and remote health workers and practitioners, which are all listed on the NT Health website.
