Boost in Indigenous employment in Western NSW

The Gillard Government has provided more than $300,000 to increase the employment opportunities of Indigenous Australians living in Broken Hill, Wilcannia, Menindee and Ivanhoe through the Indigenous Employment Program.

The Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin, today met with Maari Ma Health Aboriginal Corporation in Wilcannia.

Ms Macklin said the funding would provide 12 new positions in the regional health sector for Indigenous people.

“A job gives purpose and meaning to people’s lives,” Ms Macklin said.

“These new positions will not only boost local employment but provide much-needed health workers on the ground in regional towns.”

Minister for Indigenous Employment and Economic Development Senator Arbib said Maari Ma would receive more than $250,000 to employ 10 trainee Indigenous health workers and a trainee administration assistant – six in Broken Hill, three in Wilcannia and one each at Menindee and Ivanhoe.

“Maari Ma provides crucial health services to Indigenous communities across New South Wales,” Senator Arbib said.

“This funding is another demonstration of the government’s commitment to ensuring Indigenous employment opportunities in the health industry.”

Senator Arbib said in addition Maari Ma would receive $60,000 to employ an Indigenous Workforce Coordinator.  The Workforce Coordinator will provide a mentor service to the Indigenous health workers throughout the region.”