About the program

​Two women sitting at a table reviewing paperworkBianca Raymond and Vanessa Cole | Indigenous Employment Program

The Indigenous Employment Program (IEP) is a pre-employment program specifically designed to attract Indigenous jobseekers. Candidates may wish to enter or return to the workforce, or be individuals seeking the opportunity to enter into a Northern Territory Public Sector (NTPS) career. The program aims to equip each trainee with a foundation of skills relevant to entry level positions. Trainees undertake a targeted training program that incorporates accredited vocational training. This is complemented by work readiness development and work-based learning.

On successful completion participants will receive a permanent position within the NTPS.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the program students must:

  • identify as an Indigenous person residing in the Northern Territory
  • be eligible to receive Abstudy
  • have basic computer skills
  • possess sound written and oral communication skills.

Training

The journey begins during induction week. This consists of workshops, training and discussions about the program. Induction week also provides the IEP team opportunities to get to know the trainees’ interests, aspirations and challenges.

The induction phase establishes a framework that is built upon and enhanced as participant’s progress through the program. Topics covered include:

  • Indigenous context
  • work readiness
  • self-learning
  • personal and social change
  • the world of work
  • employers’ expectations
  • a model for understanding cultural differences
  • workplace communication
    • ​
  • work ethics
  • retention and resilience
  • diversity in the workplace
  • strengths, needs, opportunities and challenges for employment
  • past employment experience
  • personal values survey
  • models of Indigenous leadership
  • developing personal action plans.
​

Offers of placement in the program are made on the final day of induction week where attendance, participation and commitment are evaluated.

Follow-up sessions are held throughout the program to revisit and reflect on induction week topics and to provide ongoing mentoring support and development opportunities to trainees.

Support

The Indigenous Employment Program provides both buddy and mentor support to trainees. In the workplace, participants will have both a supervisor and a buddy support system available. These mentors assist the individual with their development, both personally and professionally and are crucial to the success of the Indigenous Employment Program.

The IEP team also provides mentoring support to participants throughout and beyond the program.

How to apply

Applications are taken in person at information sessions held throughout the year.

Alternatively you may register your interest with your Job Services Australia provider or contact the program coordinator directly per the contact details below.

Testimonials

Jacqueline Peckham​

​

Fiona McHugh​

Portrait image of Jacqueline Peckham​'I wanted to make improvements in my life and for my children’s future and the program was a great opportunity, giving me the skills and the passion to do anything I set my mind to.’

Read Jacqueline's story
​

 ​ Portrait image of Fiona McHugh‘Personally I have had everything thrown at me this year, but here I am still standing to the very end and now I have completed my Certificate II in Business.’

Read Fiona's story

Kane and Madonna Stewart​

 ​

Mark Munnich​

Portrait image of Kane and Madonna StewartThis dynamic duo is the first mother and son team to complete the Indigenous Employment Program together.

Read Kane and Madonna's story

​		 ​ Portrait image of Mark Munnich‘The support given to trainees from mentors, buddies and supervisors was outstanding.’

Read Mark's story​

More information

Employment Programs
Department of Business and Employment
GPO Box 2391
Darwin NT 0801
t: (08) 8999 3708
f: (08) 8999 3755
e: employmentprograms.dbe@nt.gov.au
w: http://www.employmentprograms.nt.gov.au