Eight Indigenous women from NSW are breaking down barriers in the health and community services sector, having recently graduated with a Diploma of Counselling from TAFE NSW Wetherill Park.
The close-knit crew all work at the Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council (GLALC) Health Services and Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, and the Diploma of Counselling is one of several qualifications they've added to their burgeoning skill sets, with certificates in youth work, mental health, and alcohol and drug support already under their belt.
All the women say they plan to study a Diploma of Community Services in 2025 to further their career paths.
One of the graduates, Rachel Ingrey, recently transitioned to the role of practice coordinator at the GLALC Health Services in Liverpool and said most days she interacts with someone during a crisis, or who is affected by drugs or alcohol.
It comes as the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) highlighted research showing Indigenous health staff are able to build better rapport and earn the trust Indigenous patients which enhances communication, which reduces anxiety and enables better treatment and recovery for patients.
"Growing up in Green Valley, I know many people in the community—they trust me and feel comfortable talking," Ms Ingrey said.
"The Diploma of Counselling has boosted my confidence and strengthened my ability to support patients, de-escalate crises, and simply be there to listen."
She added one of the biggest lessons she has learnt was it's not always about finding solutions, but rather, "being present and letting people feel heard".
Another graduate, Amanda Smith, said she was able to use her life experiences to help gain qualifications so she could be employed as a social support worker for the Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation in Campbelltown.
Her previous qualifications in youth work, mental health, and alcohol and drug support, along with a passion for helping others overcome obstacles, have only helped her succeed in her role.
"My work focuses on social, emotional, and wellbeing support, covering mental health, housing, food security, and legal assistance," Ms Smith said.
"For 13 years I was in a severe domestic violence relationship and never allowed to do anything for me. I thought, I'm going to try studying, and I did it. It was the first step to reclaim my life."
Miss Smith was grateful for the help of her TAFE NSW community services teacher Wendy Scollay, who she said helped understand the students' needs in order to create the best learning environment possible.
"We all know each other, and our teacher understands that Mob comes first," she said.
"When things come up for our families or kids, we have the flexibility to juggle work, family, and study. We hardly ever want to miss a day of class and that speaks volumes. It's a safe space here."
TAFE NSW Director of Health, Wellbeing, and Community Services Anne Goonetilleke said the organisation provides a range of initiatives to help improve the educational and employment outcomes for Indigenous people across the state.
"Our exceptional teaching staff provide fantastic support and guidance for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in health and community services," Ms Goonetilleke said.
"Working within these sectors provides fulfilling and rewarding careers that will help improve life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people."
