Since 2010, the Navy led Indigenous Development Program has been helping Indigenous people to benefit from a rewarding career in the Defence Force.

Lieutenant Commander Luke Weston said "the success of these recruits is a shining example of what can be achieved through embracing culture and diversity. With a one hundred per cent completion rate over four programs so far, it is a great initiative for not only Navy and Defence, but also the broader Australian community."

Part of the Navy’s Indigenous Employment Strategy, the program is closely aligned to the Defence Reconciliation Action Plan and the Australian Government’s agreement to increase Indigenous representation in the workforce.

One of the six female participants and recruit of the intake, Kelly Curry, was positive about the experience. "The program has given me the opportunity to learn new skills, to absorb the knowledge of Navy life and the ability to share my Indigenous culture," Kelly said.

Back to chapter four