VIP job access for our Aboriginal community

The tides are officially turning on a history of barriers to employment outcomes for Aboriginal members of the western Sydney community.

Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) is providing special access for specific job applications to Aboriginal people, with the aim of increasing diversity across the organisation.

Carol Muthunesan who is of Aboriginal background, has worked in various roles in NSW Health since 2008 and is currently working for Blacktown Hospital.

“I was the first Aboriginal nursing cadet Blacktown Hospital ever had … since then I’ve had a few roles in NSW Health,” Carol said.

“I’m now an Aboriginal care facilitator and clinical nurse specialist and I love my job … my son is a registered nurse as well.

“I encourage people from my background to apply for a job at NSW Health or Western Sydney Local Health District.”

WSLHD executive director of operations Robynne Cooke said the district is working hard to improve job access for the Aboriginal community.

“There is a history of reduced engagement of Aboriginal people in education and employment outcomes in the western Sydney region and we want to change these outcomes,” Ms Cooke said.

“For the first time, NSW Health policy allows us to limit specific roles and opportunities to Aboriginal people.

“Improving education and employment outcomes equals better health for this community.”

A popular pathway into health is nursing and midwifery, with a statewide campaign currently under way to recruit new graduates.

Other options can include podiatry, psychology, social work, occupational therapy, management, finance, accounting, information technology and communication.

“We are so proud to be putting reconciliation into action,” Ms Cooke said.

“I encourage the Aboriginal community to look at doing some health training and seriously consider careers in our sector.

“Not only does our health service need you working with us, our community does too.”

This week is National Reconciliation Week so take the time to grow your understanding of Australia’s shared history, which continues to impact and influence people today: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/national-reconciliation-week/

MORE INFORMATION: 

For general employment information about employment in NSW Health services: http://apply.steppingup.health.nsw.gov.au/

If you are interested in nursing and midwifery visit: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/aboriginal-strategy/Pages/aboriginal-cadetships.aspx.

Aboriginal cadetships: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/aboriginal-strategy/Pages/aboriginal-cadetships.aspx

Career pathways: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/workforce/aboriginal/Pages/career-pathways.aspx.