A joint $35 million investment from the federal and Northern Territory governments will boost access to Vocational Education and Training for First Nations people in the NT.
$17.5 million from the Commonwealth and $17.5 million from the Territory will be provided for Closing the Gap initiatives across the NT that support First Nations learners, workforce and staff working with organisations and communities to improve VET.
The measures include:
Establishing a First Nations Registered Training Organisation (RTO) advisory group to guide a VET sector strategy to boost First Nations participation in training;
Strengthening and growing the First Nations VET sector and workforce by investing in targeted support and the development of innovative training models aimed at expanding delivery of courses, particularly in remote communities; and
Improving culturally-responsive capability in the VET sector in the NT by piloting resources, enhancing engagement, and expanding tailored support for learners and staff.
The initiatives will be delivered under the National Skills Agreement.
Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles said the federal government is "backing First Nations Territorians to be a part of a strong and sustainable First Nations VET sector, so that students can benefit from great training opportunities, and teachers can benefit from the support they need to prepare their students for their future careers".
"This $35 million joint investment from our governments is focused on delivering effective, culturally responsive and community-led training through strengthened partnerships with First Nations RTOs and communities," he said.
Northern Territory Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey said that through a strong local partnership, the Bilateral Implementation Plan has been co-designed to strengthen the Aboriginal VET sector and create "real opportunities" for people in remote communities.
"I was fortunate to recently visit the Dijan Training facility in my electorate of Katherine, where Aboriginal students will commence Certificate III and IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care in the Big Rivers region in 2026," she said.
"Together with the NT First Nations RTO Advisory Group, we are committed to activating this plan and delivering lasting benefits for learners, communities, and the Territory's workforce."
