Inner west graduates form part of AES

A program designed to prepare young Indigenous students for long-term employment has successfully graduated another batch of participants, with 53 high achievers completing their training at the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence in Redfern on December 10.

The Aboriginal Employment Strategy, based in Glebe, works in conjunction with a number of corporate and governmental partners to place young Indigenous people in two-year traineeships whilst completing their HSC. Such placements work as a prelude to further training or full-time employment, giving the students valuable skills and experience.

The Sydney graduation was the final ceremony in a series of seven held nationwide throughout November and December. Over 118 Indigenous students graduated from the AES Traineeship Program around Australia – the largest number to qualify in one year since the AES was founded 14 years ago.

Field Officer with the AES, Alisha Merritt, said her job, along with those of her colleagues, was in large part that of mentor to the students. “Our role is to source the hosts and the students, screen them, and mentor them throughout the program – basically make sure they’re being looked after and supported in the workplace,” she said.

“Being Indigenous [myself], there was an attraction in helping out the kids, setting them on a career path.”

For at least one graduate, the program has literally changed her life. From someone who was in her own admission a likely Year 10 dropout, Kayla McGrath decided to remain in school and completed her traineeship with Housing NSW, after her careers advisor convinced her to apply to the program.

“It’s been amazing,” she said. “The people were great – I moved around a lot of departments so it’s been great experience, and they’ve offered me a full-time position now.”

Minister for Indigenous Employment and Economic Development, Mark Arbib, said the program granted trainees “invaluable” exposure to the workplace. “The skills they learned and the experience they gained will see them well-placed for the careers of their choice,” he said.