This page lists programs that aim to build and support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce.
You can also see:
- our page on jobs and scholarships supporting the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce
- a list of all programs we fund for the wider health workforce.
Work packages
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Pharmacy Scholarship Scheme
This scholarship scheme encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to undertake undergraduate or graduate entry studies in pharmacy at an Australian university.
Australian Rotary Health Indigenous Health Scholarships
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.
First Nations Health Funding Transition Program (FNHFTP)
The FNHFTP supports our efforts in improving health outcomes for First Nations peoples.
First Nations Health Worker Traineeship Program
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.
Indigenous Employment Initiative (IEI) 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.
Indigenous Health Workforce Traineeships program
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.
Indigenous Program of Experience in the Palliative Approach (IPEPA)
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.
National Medical Workforce Strategy 2021–2031
We have developed this 10-year strategy to guide long-term medical workforce planning across Australia. It will improve access to health care by supporting the right people to have the right skills, where we need them most.
Nursing and allied health scholarships
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.
Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme
The Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme (PHMSS) assists entry-level First Nations students to complete their studies and join the health workforce. The Scheme is managed by Indigenous Allied Health Australia (IAHA).
Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professional organisations
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.
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