Applications have now opened for the NT Health Aboriginal Cadetship Program aiming to increase the number of Aboriginal health professionals on the frontline. 

The Cadetship Program supports skill shortage areas and develop future Aboriginal clinical and health professionals, with increased financial support offered for Cadets in 2020.

Aboriginal students undertaking their first undergraduate degree or postgraduate studies to gain professional health qualifications are eligible, and the cadetships provide experiences that will lead to entry to practice upon completion of their studies.

The five cadetships available in 2020 include a study allowance of up to $1200 per fortnight whilst engaged in full time studies, a book allowance of up to $1000 per year, an incentive payment of up to $4,000 per year and 12 weeks paid on the job work placement during the university major academic breaks.

The 2020 NT Health Cadetship program replaces the Indigenous Cadetship Support Program, and offers an increase to the Study Allowance from $600 to $1200 a fortnight, and a new $4,000 incentive payment per year to ease financial burden, a common cause for non-completions.

More information on the NT Health Aboriginal Cadetships can be found at health.nt.gov.au/careers/indigenous-cadetships.

Quotes attributed to the Minister for Health, Natasha Fyles:

“The successful delivery of high-quality health services for Territorians relies on trained Aboriginal Health Practitioners, particularly in remote communities. 

“The NT Health Aboriginal Cadetship Program for eligible students undertaking tertiary level study is a key initiative which goes towards assisting the employment of Aboriginal people in health professions. 

“We need more Aboriginal Territorians in frontline health environments, and this programs is designed to support that, ultimately delivering a better patient experience across the Territory.

“The government has a long term view of increasing numbers by five cadets per year over the next five years.

“Increasing the number of nurses, midwives, enrolled nurses, doctors and allied health professional has been a priority for the Territory Labor Government, and upskilling and mobilising our Aboriginal students engaged in tertiary education is part of this commitment.”

Media contact: Hannah West 0436 641 108