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Media release
TAFE NSW Wetherill Park | 16 December 2024
TAFE NSW empowers local Aboriginal health and community service workers
“We all know each other and our teacher understands that Mob comes first.”
Rachel Ingrey
Eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from southwest Sydney are breaking barriers in the health and community services sector, paving the way to address underrepresentation and improve outcomes for their mob.
This tight knit group, who work at Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council (GLALC) Health Services and Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, recently graduated with a Diploma of Counselling from TAFE NSW Wetherill Park. This is one of several qualifications they've added to their skill set, having also graduated from certificates in youth work, mental health, and alcohol and drug support. In 2025, they plan to further their study through a Diploma of Community Services.
Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) highlights that Indigenous health staff build better rapport and trust with Indigenous patients, enhancing communication and reducing anxiety.This representation is critical, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people remain significantly underrepresented in the health workforce across Australia.
This holds true for Rachel Ingrey who is among the Diploma of Counselling graduates. With her multiple qualifications, she recently transitioned to the role of practice coordinator at the GLALC Health Services in Liverpool.
"Most days, someone comes in during a crisis or affected by drugs and alcohol," Ms Ingrey said. "Growing up in Green Valley, I know many people in the community - they trust me and feel comfortable talking. The Diploma of Counselling has boosted my confidence and strengthened my ability to support patients, de-escalate crises, and simply be there to listen. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that it's not always about finding solutions but being present and letting people feel heard."
Another Diploma of Counselling graduate, Amanda Smith, has been able to use her life experience and gain qualifications to work as a social support worker at Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation in Campbelltown. With previous qualifications in youth work, mental health, and alcohol and drug support, Amanda is passionate about helping others overcome challenges.
“My work focuses on social, emotional, and wellbeing support, covering mental health, housing, food security, and legal assistance,” Ms Smith said. “For 13 years I was in a severe domestic violence relationship and never allowed to do anything for me. I thought, I’m going to try studying, and I did it. It was the first step to reclaim my life.”
Reflecting on her experience, Rachel praised the support of TAFE NSW community services teacher Wendy Scollay, whose understanding of the students’ needs creates a supportive and empowering learning environment.
“We all know each other and our teacher understands that Mob comes first,” she said. “When things come up for our families or kids, we have the flexibility to juggle work, family and study. We hardly ever want to miss a day of class and that speaks volumes. It’s a safe space here.”
TAFE NSW Director of Health, Wellbeing, and Community Services Anne Goonetilleke said TAFE NSW provides a range of initiatives to improve the educational and employment outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“Our exceptional teaching staff provide fantastic support and guidance for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in health and community services,” Ms Goonetilleke said. “Working within these sectors provides fulfilling and rewarding careers that will help improve life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”
Media contact: Melanie O’Connell, Communication Specialist, (02) 7920 5000
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