The Pathways to Employment program provides work experience, traineeships and scholarships to support First Nations individuals looking to build careers in administration, healthcare and aviation. 

Last year, CareFlight carried out more than 7500 aeromedical patient retrievals across the Northern Territory. 

As part of its commitment to supporting First Nations communities, CareFlight’s Pathways to Employment program – funded by fuel distributor Viva Energy – partners with organisations such as the Clontarf Foundation, Stars Foundation, CEA Group Australia and Airport Development Group. 

This collaboration provides hands-on experience and valuable educational opportunities for First Nations students and jobseekers, helping them build careers in administration, healthcare and aviation. 

Demetrius Galaminda, originally from Warruwi (Goulburn Island), is studying for a Certificate III in Administration while gaining practical experience at CareFlight. 

“I like my job,” he says. “Every day, I’m learning something new and building skills that will help me in the future.” 

Veronica Hughson, who completed her Certificate III and IV in Administration through the program, is now a full-time support officer at CareFlight and aspires to move into human resources. 

“The Pathways program has given me the chance to learn and grow professionally,” she says. “I’m grateful for the opportunities it’s provided, and I’m excited to continue my journey here at CareFlight.” 

CareFlight’s Community Relations Manager, Justine Williams, envisions a day when First Nations health practitioners become part of the aeromedical crews, helping to medevac patients from remote communities. 

Given that more than 90 percent of CareFlight’s NT patients are First Nations, she believes it’s an important step in improving healthcare outcomes and addressing service gaps. 

“At CareFlight, we understand the importance of having a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. 

“We’re proud to be creating pathways for First Nations Australians to join our team and contribute to the future of healthcare and aviation in remote areas.” 

The Pathways to Employment program was created as part of CareFlight’s 2017 Reconciliation Action Plan, developed in response to the organisation recognising the need for greater First Nations representation within its workforce. 

The RAP aims to close the gap in aviation and healthcare by ensuring more First Nations people can take part in these essential services. 

Since the program’s inception, it has grown to include traineeships in administration, HR and facilities, with plans to expand into IT, marketing, operations and aircraft engineering. 

Through these partnerships, CareFlight also offers work experience placements to give students exposure to aviation, healthcare and support roles. Scholarships are available for those pursuing qualifications in aviation, including pilot training, as well as in engineering and clinical roles. 

CareFlight, which has a staff of about 250 and a fleet that includes five King Air fixed-wing aircraft, two jets, two AW139 helicopters and a Kawasaki BK chopper, operates across a vast region, from Elliott to the Tiwi Islands, west to the Queensland border and east to Western Australia. 

The Pathways to Employment program is helping to ensure First Nations Australians play an integral role in providing CareFlight’s critical aeromedical services. 

First Nations jobseekers and students interested in pursuing careers in aviation, healthcare or business are encouraged to explore the opportunities offered through CareFlight’s Pathways to Employment program.