Aboriginal nursing and midwifery students have an opportunity to apply for NSW Health cadetships that provide financial and career support. 

Applications for the NSW Health Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program 2020 are open until January 25. 

NSW Health Chief Nurse and Midwifery Officer Jacqui Cross said the program aims to improve Aboriginal health outcomes by providing education and employment opportunities for Aboriginal people aspiring to be nurses or midwives. 

“As part of this fantastic program, cadetships are offered to Aboriginal people to help them undertake and complete nursing or midwifery studies,” Ms Cross said. 

“The cadetships give these students the chance to be part of a team in a nurturing environment to build their skills as they prepare to be nurses and midwives. 

“They also provide financial assistance, including a study allowance, to help students manage their expenses while undertaking their studies.” 

NSW Health developed the program to increase the number of Aboriginal nurses and midwives in rural and remote NSW, and to improve career development opportunities for Aboriginal employees working in the public health system. 

Elise McCarthy-McPhan is one of 173 recipients of the NSW Health Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program. Elise is currently working with the Nursing and Midwifery Office on secondment from the Sydney Children’s Hospital and said it was a life changing experience. 

“Each opportunity I was given meant more opportunities I was able to give back to my mob which was my motivation for doing nursing, to help provide culturally safe care in order to close the gap,” Ms McCarthy-McPhan said. 

“I honestly believe that if it wasn’t for the opportunities given during my cadetship program, I wouldn’t be as successful in the position that I’m in today, and with the supportive networks that I have formed.” 

For more information on the Aboriginal Nursing and Midwifery Cadetship Program 2020 visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/nursing/aboriginal-strategy/Pages/aboriginal-cadetships.aspx