Media release

“We’re fortunate to have this course running locally, it provides good foundation skills in primary health care.”

Saraya Ardler

For the first time in a decade, TAFE NSW Nowra is offering the Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, aimed at upskilling primary health care practitioners to deliver an expanded level of care.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students employed in Aboriginal health care services from across Shoalhaven and the Illawarra are learning essential primary health care and clinical skills, including measuring blood pressure, body-mass index, blood sugar levels, taking blood tests, and monitoring social and emotional wellbeing.

The capacity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health practitioners to deliver health checks in their local communities plays an important role in improving overall health outcomes. Recent Closing the Gap reporting shows nationally that in 2023 to 2024, one in four Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people had Indigenous-specific health checks or assessments, either at health facilities or in residential aged care. In more regional communities, locals may need to travel longer distances to access health care services, which can be a barrier to receiving the health care support they need most.

On completing the course, the students will take their new, expanded skills to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, providing more accessible, local care, helping to reduce the risk of illness and providing support for people with certain medical conditions.

TAFE NSW Team Leader of Aboriginal Primary Health, Owen Kerr, said there is growing demand for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with primary health skills in the Shoalhaven, Illawarra, and South Coast.

“It’s important local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members are equipped with these skills so they can deliver primary health care in a culturally safe and supportive manner,” Mr Kerr said.

Saraya Ardler from Nowra has a background in aged care and is completing the course as a stepping stone to her career goal.

“We’re fortunate to have this course running locally, it provides good foundation skills in primary health care. When I graduate, I will be looking to upskill into nursing and then hopefully to a career working in Palliative care,” she said.

Media contact: Adam Wright, TAFE NSW Communication Specialist, (02) 7920 5000

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