Indigenous people on the northern rivers seeking work for the first time are invited to apply for apprenticeships within the department of human services. But you will need to be quick – the applications close this weekend.
Department services include Centrelink, Child Support and Medicare.
Manager for Indigenous Employment Carlyn Waters says it’s a department that at one time or another has contact with almost every Australian
An apprenticeship with the department can be ‘the start of a diverse, secure and satisfying public service career,’ Ms Waters said.
‘It has a strong commitment to employing Indigenous Australians with opportunities throughout the country.’
Ms Waters said Indigenous staff are engaged throughout the department in a variety of roles from front counter customer service officers to managers overseeing vital service-delivery programs.
‘In Tweed Heads with our large Indigenous customer base, the recruitment of Indigenous staff is a priority. It helps to ensure we’re providing services that are culturally and linguistically appropriate,’ Ms Waters said.
Ms Waters said the Indigenous apprenticeship scheme and the school-based apprenticeship program offers people with limited work experience the chance to build a future for themselves.
‘Indigenous apprentices complete Certificate III qualifications as well as receiving on-the-job training over a 12-month period,’ Ms Waters said.
‘Existing Indigenous staff members act as mentors for each apprentice, offering them the added benefit of their personal experience as well as moral support.
‘I encourage anyone looking for an interesting job in a supportive environment to apply. You won’t regret it.’
The application period closes on 23 December, 2012.
For more information visit humanservices.gov.au. Call your local Indigenous apprentice recruitment officer Bec King on 07 5569 9080.
