Five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander undergraduates are jump-starting their practical training with Metro South Health in 2026, thanks to the statewide Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Cadetship program.
Taking up exciting placements across Nursing, Allied Health and Legal Services, the Cadets are gearing up for an exciting 12-month program that sets them up with hands-on experience in a live healthcare setting.
The Cadetship program has proudly supported dozens of First Nations students into placements across Queensland Health facilities for the past three years and counting.
Importantly, the program empowers First Nations undergrads with practical experience, while equipping them with the tools they need to deliver culturally safe and patient-centred care.
The 2026 cohort gathered for a special orientation on 20 January ahead of practical placements across Metro South.
Blayse (front centre) is joining Metro South Health’s Legal team in 2026, marking an historic milestone for the organisation.
“It feels a bit special to be the first Cadet in this field,” he said.
“It all sounds really interesting, and I'm excited to broaden my experience and get a taste of the variety that this role can offer.”
Principal Project Officer for the First Nations Training Pathway Programs, Statewide Cadetship Program, Sheringa Minniecon says the Cadetship supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to make a confident transition into the healthcare workforce, while they gain real-world experience alongside Metro South’s experienced professionals.
“We're excited to go into our third year of the program, allowing us to move beyond pilot and strengthen our structure and processes,” Sheringa explained.
“The Metro South team here is incredible when it comes to the supports they have in place and I know that the Cadets will be very well-supported. This will help build a new cohort to help address the identified workforce gaps across Queensland Health.”
Aboriginal Health Training and Capability Officer Rahm Rallah welcomed the new starters to the program for 2026, alongside Executive Director Allied Health MSH Kellie Stockton, Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery MSH Mish Hill, and MSH General Counsel Holly Ahern.
Metro South Health is proud to partner with the Cadetship Program and we wish all the new and continuing Cadets a successful year ahead.
Read more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cadetship Program.