Malarndirri McCarthy (NT, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Indigenous Australians) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the senator for her question. The Albanese Labor government is proud to be delivering practical programs that build skills, create jobs and strengthen the First Nations health workforce. Since the First Nations Health Worker Traineeship Program commenced in July 2023, we have seen more than 550 enrolments across the country. Of those, 152 trainees have already completed their studies. They are now armed with the skills to improve outcomes and help close the gap. This program is designed to address workforce shortages in Aboriginal health services and ensure the next generation of First Nations health professionals are supported, trained and empowered. It has been developed in partnership with NACCHO.

The training is being delivered by Aboriginal community controlled health registered training orgs and includes structured, on-the-job experience, ensuring that learning is grounded in community and not just in classrooms. That investment is contributing to greater access to vital Medicare services across the country and ensuring First Nations people have access to culturally appropriate and high-quality health care. It is delivering real outcomes, creating a skilled, culturally safe, First Nations health workforce that is improving access to care right across the country. It shows what can be achieved when government listens, works in partnership and lets First Nations leadership drive the solutions.