A new program is set to provide Aboriginal health workforce training opportunities on Groote Eylandt in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
The employment pathway trainee pilot program will see Aboriginal health workers train locally on Groote Eylandt for the first time, negating the need for trainees to travel to the mainland to continue their studies.
Eight trainees from school leavers to NT Health staff recently commenced the first phase of the new program.
They include trainee Moses Nelson, who said the training was inspiring.
"Our teacher is very knowledgeable and understanding and wants all our futures to be successful," he said.
"The training is teaching us to be role models and keeping our community healthy and safe."
The remote training program is designed to build foundational knowledge and skills over time, offering a flexible and supportive training environment.
Trainees can progress at their own pace, with pathways available right through to the Certificate IV in Aboriginal Primary Health Care Practice – the qualification required to become a registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner.
Trainee Moses Nelson (right) says training on Groote Eylandt is inspiring. (Image: NT News)
Northern Territory Minister for Health Steve Edgington said the program would provide a closer-to-home learning pathway for Aboriginal people in the region to pursue a career in health.
"Aspiring Aboriginal Health Practitioners can now begin their training journey without having to leave their community and families," he said.
"This program is about growing our own local workforce and ensuring that Aboriginal Territorians can access culturally appropriate healthcare delivered by people they know and trust."
The program is delivered by NT Health, the Department of Corporate and Digital Development's Early Careers Team and the Northern Territory Primary Health Network, with initial training for the program provided by Indigenous-owned professional service Ninti Training.
Mr Edgington said the Northern Territory government was committed to increasing employment opportunities for Aboriginal people to become health professionals in the Territory.
"A health practitioner is often the first point of contact for patients, and they play a vital role connecting traditional knowledge and western medicine," Mr Edgington said.
"Aboriginal Health Practitioners are at the heart of community health, providing clinical services and care to Aboriginal people across the Territory and our government is all about empowering and supporting the bush."
