OVER 300 people have enrolled in the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation's (NACCHO) First Nations Health Worker Traineeship Program.
The peak body's move marks a significant milestone for its Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs).
Assistant Minister for Indigenous Australians Health, Malarndirri McCarthy, updated the public during NAIDOC Week on the program's progress, at the Joint Council on Closing the Gap meeting in Adelaide.
Launched in Mar, the traineeship program aims to address workforce shortages in ACCHOs.
So far, 51 trainees have completed the program, developed in partnership with the government.
Training is delivered by ACCHOs, and includes on-the-job experience.
The Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Service plays a crucial role in training Aboriginal health practitioners under the program, offering additional support that has boosted completion rates.
One of the ACCHOs, Apunipima Cape York Health Council, has appointed a Student Support Manager through the program to ensure trainees are prepared for employment upon graduation.
The Federal Government has committed $54.3 million to the program, aiming to train up to 500 First Nations people as Aboriginal health workers and practitioners.
NACCHO CEO Pat Turner commented, "four months since the launch of the First Nations Health Worker Traineeship Program, we are witnessing remarkable progress and a strengthened commitment to health sovereignty among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities".
"This initiative not only equips trainees with essential skills and wrap-around supports through culturally-nuanced programs, but also bridges key gaps in our healthcare system.
"Critically, growing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and human services workforce is key to achieving Closing the Gap Targets in health, wellbeing and education," Turner added.
"Our journey towards building the Aboriginal Health practitioner workforce by 2027 is well underway, reflecting our deep commitment to sustainable health outcomes and the principles of self-determination." JG
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