Territorians from diverse cultural and remote locations have come together to undertake training and professional development which will provide a boost to the care sector in Central Australia.

Response Employment and Training are delivering CHC42015 Certificate IV in Community Services to 22 participants at Desert Knowledge in Alice Springs. The course is funded by the Australian Government and Northern Territory Government’s Fee-Free TAFE program.

Central Australians undertaking this qualification are building valuable soft skills in communication, collaboration, technical skills in project management and the ability to proactively manage difficult situations

Kerry Rock, Senior Aged Care and Disability Trainer from Response RTO, has seen substantial professional growth in students during the program.

She said “The course has seen students successfully develop essential skills, such as building confidence in public speaking, giving and receiving feedback, networking, and respecting cultural diversity.”

“Students have shown a genuine understanding of the importance of collaboration in improving outcomes for their clients in aged and disability support.”

Completing this nationally accredited course leads to more skilled professionals entering the local care workforce and enables career progression for those already in the sector. These skills are transferrable across a broad range of care sector roles, including aged care, disability support services, social work, and health, addressing skills shortages in regional and remote parts of the Northern Territory.

Kerry adds,“The training has helped participants develop personal and professional confidence, preparing them for career growth and progression as team leaders, coordinators, and supervisors. It also provides skills and knowledge they can apply to potentially open and operate a small disability business.”

The students graduate in June, ready to boost the care sector workforce in Central Australia.