Nine Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have graduated from an innovative training program equipped with job-ready skills, thanks to a collaboration between TAFE NSW and the Australian Tax Office (ATO). 

The ATO Jumpstart Program is a 12-month pilot designed to kickstart the careers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, through targeted TAFE NSW training and valuable work experience at the ATO. 

Participants from the ATO Jumpstart Program have now completed a Certificate III in Business Services and are continuing to hone their customer service skills through on-the-job training at the government organisation. 

TAFE NSW graduate and proud Wiradjuri man, Tamatau Faleono, said the Jumpstart Program opened up a new career path and allowed him to set himself up for success. 

“After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication at university, I decided to take a gap year and then once COVID-19 hit, I found it difficult to find a job in my field,” Mr Faleono said. 

“The program has been perfect for me as it’s so flexible and has given me the opportunity to gain a qualification, learn new skills and work part-time – all at the same time.  

“Having Indigenous people in government roles is great for communities – and gaining hands-on, transferrable skills has been invaluable for my career.” 

TAFE NSW Aboriginal Engagement Coordinator, Bobbie-Sue Wright, said the ATO Jumpstart Program is a great example of the way in which TAFE NSW works with employers to meet specific skills needs. 

“The Jumpstart Program delivers customised training to meet the skills requirements of the ATO, while providing students with personalised support and a head start in their career,” Ms Wright said. 

ATO Program Manager Bhupinder Kaur said the Jumpstart Program is helping to advance the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and increase diversity and representation across the ATO workforce.  

“Through a combination of work experience and study, participants have the opportunity to build their professional capability while gaining exposure to career opportunities within the ATO,” Ms Kaur said. 

To find out more about studying at TAFE NSW, visit www.tafensw.edu.au or call 131 601.  

Media contact: Emma Woodward, Communications Specialist