TAFE NSW and HealthShare NSW have partnered to support positive career outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers, by delivering a career development program that has already resulted in over three quarters of participants securing promotions.

HealthShare NSW’s Jobs to Careers Aboriginal Development Program works to strengthen the representation of Aboriginal people in the workforce, while empowering employees to build sustainable careers in the healthcare industry.

Since 2018, there have been 53 graduates of the program with 76% progressing to higher grade roles within or outside the organisation. 

As part of the program, participants study Statement of Attainment’s in Communication, Customer Service and Team Effectiveness, as well as Critical Thinking, Emotional Intelligence and Personal Development, at TAFE NSW. While most of the course is delivered online to HealthShare NSW employees across the state, participants come together for a face-to-face block at TAFE NSW Kurri Kurri, where they participated in cultural activities, including a yarning circle and a weaving workshop.  

Shaun Jones, a proud Awabakal man who graduated in the most recent cohort, says as a result of the program, he has developed important skills to expand his career options.

“This program has given me the help I need to further my career, and it was a valuable experience getting to know other mob from other parts of the state,” he said.

“I learned so much about myself through the course, about emotional intelligence and my different personality traits and how I can apply these in the workplace.”

“My manager, fellow classmates and teachers have all noted how my self-confidence has grown since completing this course. They have supported me and have had my back all the way through.”

TAFE NSW Course Coordinator Samantha Mallison says the program has led to excellent employment outcomes for those who have participated.

“It is through industry partnerships like this one with HealthShare NSW that we can make a real difference,” she said.

“The result speak for themselves – with so many graduates going into higher roles, we know we are helping to meet the needs of the healthcare industry, while training the workforce of the future.”

Aboriginal Workforce Consultant for HealthShare NSW Jacinta Shipley says they are proud to be supporting the growth and development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees.

“With the continued support and collaboration with TAFE NSW, we have seen many employees graduate and progress to more senior roles.”

“This year’s program was delivered virtually and in-person and our participants adapted extremely well to the connected classroom environment. They thoroughly enjoyed meeting face to face, connecting through cultural activities and shared experiences.”  

“Every person has put in an amazing effort throughout the program, we are extremely proud of them and look forward to watching them continue to grow and use the skills gained from this program to work towards their future goals.”

Media contact: Lauren McAllister, TAFE NSW Communications Specialist, MediaRelease@tafensw.edu.au, 02 7920 5000.