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Cultural element, youth focus key to federal government's new remote jobs program

David Prestipino -

A second round of consultation across 200 Indigenous communities on a new national remote jobs program has provided sharp but clear feedback to the federal government ahead of the rollout of its new Remote Jobs and Economic Development Program.

The talks between April and July with community members, leaders, job seekers, employers, First Nations corporations, council members, participants and providers in the 60 regions under the Commonwealth's soon-defunct Community Development Program will shape the delivery of program rollout, expected later this year.

The federal government said the new RJED would deliver 3,000 new jobs in three years, with proper wages and decent conditions.

The second round of consultation coincides with current job trials across Australia, with feedback to inform new approaches and pathways to enhancing opportunities and employment for First Nations people.

The latest round of consultation on how the government should deliver its new program indicated more focus on cultural integration and youth opportunities across training and employment in remote communities.

Jaru woman Nathalia Rose Imberlong is among those currently working in the new jobs program trial, at Waringarri Media Aboriginal Corporation in Kununurra.

She said working in the remote Western Australian town as a broadcaster and administration clerk has given her a sense of purpose.

"I feel proud for working here… having any job for that matter," she said.

"It gives me purpose to get up every morning, knowing I'm doing something I enjoy and am passionate about."

She said she enjoyed going to work, and the satisfaction of seeing others across the industry enjoy it as much as she.

Making a change, and uniting others to have a voice, and a say, was equally important.

"I'm part of a deadly team and something that matters… working to make a difference in the community," she said.

Federal Indigenous affairs minister Malarndirri McCarthy said the consultation showed remote communities knew what aspects of the program required specific tweaking to their needs, and it was vital the government listened to each perspective.

"The consultation report reiterates the importance of a jobs program that is flexible and caters for cultural needs and the unique circumstances of remote communities," she said.

"We can change the narrative around remote employment and show the impact a job can have when it's the right one, with the right purpose, in the right place."

A consultation summary and full report can be found online.

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National Indigenous Times