New Aboriginal pathways program opens doors to water industry careers

A new training program underway in Port Macquarie is helping Aboriginal people explore rewarding careers in the water industry while supporting local water utilities to build skilled workforces. 

The two-week Aboriginal Pathways Fresh Start into Water Operations course runs until 25 September, building on the success of the pilot program delivered in the Shoalhaven region earlier this year. 

Participants will gain insight into a range of water industry careers, including hands on training in water treatment operations, water sampling and testing, and workplace health and safety, in a culturally supportive environment. After the course, Kempsey Shire Council, Port Macquarie Hastings Council and MidCoast Council will open their traineeship intakes, providing opportunities for participants to continue their career journey. 

Interest in the Port Macquarie course was strong, with applications exceeding expectations.  

Local water utilities across regional New South Wales continue to face workforce and skills shortages. 

Most utilities are operated by local councils and play a vital role in delivering safe and reliable water services to communities. The program aims to help create a pipeline of skilled workers while providing Aboriginal people with pathways into meaningful, long-term careers.  

The program is a partnership between Department Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) Aboriginal Affairs NSW and the NSW Water Directorate, delivered through DCCEEW’s Workforce Futures Team as part of the Town Water Risk Reduction Program.

It is funded by NSW Office of Local Government Fresh Start program, with the training component funded by the NSW Department of Education through the NSW Fee Free Construction Part Qualification Program. 

DCCEEW’s Workforce Futures Team Manager Lisa Andersons said:

"The strong response to this course shows there is real interest in water industry careers and highlights the importance of creating pathways that meet the needs of Aboriginal participants." 

"Following the success of the Shoalhaven pilot, we're continuing to develop a model that supports local water utilities while helping participants build lasting careers in a growing and essential industry." 
Port Macquarie Hastings Council, Group Manager People Safety and Performance, Louise Perry said:

“It’s fantastic to see councils, government, industry and community organisations working together to create genuine career pathways for Aboriginal people in our region.  

“A career in the water industry offers the opportunity to build valuable skills, work close to home and make a real difference to the communities we live in by helping deliver an essential service.  

“Collaboration is at the heart of this program, and we’re proud to be part of creating these opportunities.”