Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce programs

This scholarship scheme encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to undertake undergraduate or graduate entry studies in pharmacy at an Australian university.

We contribute funding to these scholarships that help students with their day-to-day expenses and provide mentoring support while they undertake a course in health-related professions.

The First Nations Health Funding Transition Program (FNHFTP) supports our efforts in improving health outcomes for First Nations peoples.

This program supports up to 500 First Nations students to undertake accredited training in the health sector. We fund the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) to deliver the program.

We fund the IEI Program to create employment and training opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workers in non-clinical aged care roles.

The Indigenous Health Workforce Traineeships program aims to create viable career pathways and increase the number of skilled Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in the primary health care sector.

IPEPA prepares mainstream and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals to deliver high quality, holistic and culturally responsive palliative care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their loved ones.

We fund a range of scholarship opportunities through the Australian College of Nursing including nursing, midwifery, aged care, undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships. Preference is given to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants.

The Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme (PHMSS) assists entry-level First Nations students to complete their studies and join the health workforce. From 1 July 2024, the PHMSS will transition to a First Nations-led organisation with no changes for current and future scholarship recipients.

We provide funding to 4 professional organisations that represent sections of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce. This initiative is part of the Stronger Rural Health Strategy.