Media release

Cherie Forgione, Executive Officer at Coonamble Aboriginal Health Service, completed training through the program in 2017 and said the benefits extended well beyond her qualification.

“The training really helped me understand what was expected of me as a practice manager and gave me the confidence to step into leadership roles. It taught me to think more strategically. To look at how contracts, KPIs, and planning all work together to deliver better health outcomes for our communities.

“The program brought together people from different Aboriginal Medical Services, and we learned a lot from each other and our TAFE NSW teachers. I’m still connected with my classmates today and know many have gone on to become CEOs or senior leaders in the sector.”

Delivered through a blend of face-to-face training intensives and self-paced online learning, the program is structured to suit participants working in regional and remote locations. Students are supported by the Australian Government’s Away from Base program, which covers travel, accommodation and meals to ensure equitable access to education.

Anthony Paulson, General Manager, JCTS said, “It’s great to see the students achieving significant outcomes, not only in their own professional development, but also for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities they work and live in. The role of the practice manager is vital in ACCHOs practices, and this unique course provides them with an additional level of confidence to perform their role as practice managers to the highest standard.

“Over the past 10 years, JCTS, incorporating the former GP Synergy, has made a significant contribution to this program, ensuring students have the support they need to successfully complete the course and further their career development.

“At JCTS, our key focus is creating greater access, acceptance and participation in healthcare for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities. Our collaboration with TAFE NSW supports this by giving students the skills and confidence they need to positively impact health outcomes in their communities,” he said. 

Participants receive dedicated assistance from the TAFE NSW Aboriginal Engagement and Student Support team, which provides mentoring, guidance and cultural support. This holistic approach ensures participants feel connected, confident, supported to complete their qualifications and take the next step in their careers.

TAFE NSW Senior Manager, Aboriginal Engagement & Student Support, Natalie Wilcock said the program’s success reflects the impact of education and training in delivering tangible community outcomes.

“By supporting the development of skills and qualifications of Aboriginal health staff, this program is helping to build a strong pipeline of leaders who are shaping the future of Aboriginal healthcare,” Mrs Wilcock said.

Through the program, TAFE NSW teachers provide ongoing learning support and use real scenarios from Aboriginal Medical Service environments, so students gain practical, relevant skills. This has contributed to the success of the program over the last decade – as the course is tailored to reflect real practice situations, including risk management, recruitment and strategic planning. This approach helps experienced staff from Aboriginal Medical Services connect their learning to the work they are already doing in their workplaces.

Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said, "The collaboration between TAFE NSW and Joint Colleges Training Services is a strong example of how culturally responsive education and training can deliver long-term benefits for communities.

“By supporting Aboriginal healthcare professionals to build leadership and management skills, we’re creating meaningful career pathways and strengthening the future of community-led healthcare right across the state.”

As the collaboration celebrates its 10-year milestone, TAFE NSW and JCTS continue to equip Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals with the skills, confidence, and leadership capabilities to strengthen the delivery of community-led healthcare, now and into the future.

Media contact: Rachel Ecclestone, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, 02 7920 5000.

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