A new recruitment initiative has been introduced in Western Australia to help more Aboriginal nurses and midwives enter the public health workforce; the WA government's Aboriginal Application Pathway.

The program is designed to make it easier for graduates to secure their first nursing or midwifery positions while receiving support as they begin their careers.

It will operate alongside WA Health's existing GradConnect Program, offering Aboriginal graduates another pathway into the health system.

Eligible applicants will have access to graduate nursing and midwifery programs, with successful candidates offered a fixed-term, 12-month contract as an entry-level registered nurse or midwife.

Participants will also receive assistance to help them secure permanent employment opportunities following their initial contract.

As part of the initiative, applicants will have access to individual support throughout the recruitment process.

The application period has also been extended to six months, providing graduates with additional time to consider their employment options.

Those entering the workforce through the pathway will benefit from flexible onboarding arrangements and access to a cultural support partner.

The WA government hopes the initiative will encourage more Aboriginal people to pursue careers in nursing and midwifery while improving the cultural responsiveness of health services across the state.

WA Health Minister Meredith Hammat said supporting Aboriginal graduates was an important part of strengthening the state's health workforce.

"Supporting newly qualified Aboriginal nurses and midwives through transition-to-practice programs helps strengthen a culturally responsive and representative health workforce," Ms Hammat said.

"Their insights and experiences meaningfully influence health outcomes for patients and strengthen the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal people and the broader Western Australian community."

She encouraged eligible graduates to take advantage of the opportunity.

"If you are eligible, I encourage you to apply for this valuable pathway, which will support you as you take the next step in your nursing or midwifery career."

Applications for the Aboriginal Application Pathway are open until February 1, 2027.