Opportunity for First Nations students

Calling all First Nations nursing students! Are you passionate about Aboriginal health care and seeking a rewarding clinical placement experience?  

Applications close 28th April. 

 An exciting opportunity is available for two nursing students to experience an immersive quality placement in Inverell, NSW, for up to four weeks in the second half of 2025. This placement is designed for First Nations students committed to Aboriginal health and focuses on primary health care and Aboriginal Health Services.  

The scholarships will fund all expenses, including flights and airport transfers, accommodation, meals, and local social activities. They aim to showcase Inverell as an exciting employment opportunity post-graduation, contributing to the growth of the local primary health care workforce. With affordable living and a supportive community, this placement provides both professional growth and personal enrichment while contributing to rural healthcare. 

This initiative is funded by the Hunter New England & Central Coast Primary Health Network (HNECC PHN) and the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA).  

About Inverell

Inverell, located in the beautiful New England region, is home to the  Gomeroi/Kamilaroi people, whose rich cultural heritage offers a unique learning experience. Understanding this deep connection to the land and culture will help you engage meaningfully with local Aboriginal patients, fostering cultural sensitivity in your practice. 

Beyond clinical work, Inverell offers a relaxed pace of life, with opportunities to unwind through outdoor activities and exploring the town’s heritage. Known as the “Sapphire City,” Inverell also offers gem fossicking along the Macintyre River.  

Should you choose to pursue employment in Inverell after graduation, you may also receive additional support through local graduate programs and development opportunities, ensuring a strong start to your nursing career in a rural and culturally rich setting. 

About you 

Ideal candidates would be: 

• First Nations students with a strong passion for Aboriginal health 
• Undertaking a Bachelor, Diploma or Master of Nursing. 
• Willing to undertake pre-placement training on Aboriginal Health topics relevant for the placement.  
• Interested in and willing to engage with the broader community 
• Willing to appear in photos or videos or participate in podcast interviews that may be used by HNECC PHN and APNA for promotional purposes and publications.  

How to apply 

Please send your application to your Education Provider representative by 5 pm Wednesday, the 28th of April 2025.  

You can submit your application as an 800-word written application or a video of up to three minutes. Please include:

• Your interest and passion for Aboriginal health care  
• Why you would be an ideal recipient  
• Your course and year level,
• Outline any wishes or plans for your post-graduate career direction. 

All applicants will first be selected by your education provider, with the final decision to be made in consultation with APNA, HNECC PHN, and the placement host site. Your education provider will also coordinate placement length and dates.  

Eligible Education Providers include: 

• Australian Catholic University
• Avondale University
• Charles Sturt University
• Charles Darwin
• Griffith University
• Queensford College
• Queensland University of Technology
• Southern Cross University
• Torrens University
• Uni of Wollongong
• University of New England
• Western Sydney University

Successful applicants will be notified by their Education Provider.