The Aboriginal Employment Strategy has celebrated the graduation of 45 First Nations trainees and apprentices at a ceremony held on Eora Country.

Founded in 1997, the AES aims to prepare First Nations people for long-term careers through empowerment, self-determination and opportunity. Its Trainee and Apprentice Graduate Program offers job-ready training, mentoring and nationally recognised qualifications to help participants secure ongoing work.

The 2025 cohort included graduates from across NSW and Queensland, representing communities such as Kempsey, Taree, Coffs Harbour, Newcastle, Tamworth, Gunnedah, Moree, Dubbo, Gilgandra, Wellington, Quirindi, Penrith, Port Macquarie, Brisbane and Lismore.

Award Winners

AES Chairperson Award - Charlotte Bullivant, Inner Sydney

Charlotte Bullivant received the 2025 AES Chairperson Award, recognising exceptional resilience, courage and commitment. She completed an Early Childhood Education School Based Traineeship at Wunanbiri Aboriginal Preschool while studying at Alexandria Park Community School. Known affectionately as "Aunty Char," she is celebrated for creating a culturally grounded, safe environment for children.

Full Time Trainee of the Year - Brendon Witchard, Kempsey

Brendon completed a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education ahead of schedule and is now working toward his Diploma. He also gained his provisional licence and bought his first car. At Dalaigur Pre-School, Brendon leads the outdoor environment program, overseeing budgets, grants and safety compliance.

School Based Trainee of the Year - Della Byrnes, Coffs Harbour

At 17, Della completed six HSC exams while working three jobs and has already received early university offers. As a Junior Ranger with Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation, she completed her traineeship in six months, earned multiple micro-credentials, and shares culture through weaving, Gumbaynggirr language, dance and mentoring. She has been offered a full-time traineeship with the Gumbaynggirr Rangers in 2026.

Alumni of the Year - Janaya Lamb

Janaya, a dancer and storyteller with Bangarra Dance Theatre since 2022, was honoured as Alumni of the Year. She completed an AES traineeship at ANZ during school and received the Chairperson's Award in 2017. At Bangarra, she performs on stage and supports the company's rehearsal and administrative operations.

Other award winners included:

Most Valued Ally: Dean Ahearne, Aboriginal Workforce Manager At Sydney Local Health District.

Host Employer Of The Year - Corporate Partner: Crystalite Design

Host Employer Of The Year - Community: Ngiyambandigay Wajaarr Aboriginal Corporation (NWAC).

AES Chair Glen Brennan said this year's graduates demonstrated commitment across a diverse range of career pathways.

"We know jobs shape futures, not only careers," Mr Brennan said.

"It's a path towards self-determination and a strong future for graduates and their communities. The graduates reflect the strength of First Nations people, and the AES are proud to be part of their journey.

"The diversity in pathways is incredible, there are Pre-School educators, Junior Rangers, butchers and now, 45 new Aboriginal Health Professionals."

In a message of congratulations, Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, noted: "When First Nations people succeed in education and employment, the benefits flow across families and communities."

"Every step forward creates pathways for others. The AES is leading the way, creating opportunities for First Nations people to enter and thrive across industries," Senator McCarthy said.

AES Managing Director Kristy Masella said strong partnerships were essential to the program's success.

"When organisations invest in First Nations people, they invest in stronger families, stronger communities and long-term economic outcomes," she said.

"We acknowledge the partners whose support makes this possible and backed our trainees with real support. Their commitment shows what partnership looks like when it's done well."