Garramilla / Darwin played host recently to the Work Exposure in Government (WEX) regional program for 2024. Thirty First Nations students in Years 10, 11 and 12 from schools across the Northern Territory and South Australia met on Larrakia Country to embark on a week of insight into the many employment opportunities offered in the Australian Public Service (APS).

The week kicked off with a team-building challenge at the Darwin Waterfront, fostering camaraderie among the students. Cultural connections deepened with a Saltwater Ceremony led by Larrakia Elder Dr. Richard Fejo, who welcomed WEX organisers, mentors, and students. Dr. Fejo shared stories of the Larrakia people, their deep connection to the land and sea, and the significance of preserving cultural heritage. This ceremony set a profound tone for the week, grounding the students in the rich history and traditions of Larrakia Country.

Among these students was Jack Tur-Martens, a Yankunytjatjara man living in Adelaide, who was considering a career in the APS at the end of his education journey. ‘Recently, I’ve been very interested in politics and making a difference for people’. WEX provided Jack with the opportunity to learn about government employment and he is now excited to apply for the Australian Government School Leavers program.

The itinerary for this year’s regional program supported the students’ career aspirations, with visits to the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct and presentations from the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIRO), and the Member for Solomon, Mr Luke Gosling OAM MP.

Meeting with Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel provided hands-on learning with the students participating in an exciting exercise aboard a patrol boat.

For Yiman/Iman and Warrabal student, Ciara Ransome, is was a particularly memorable experience ‘they took us for a ride it was so fun, we went so fast, turning was scary but it was fun’.

The NIAA-hosted career expo featured representatives from seven Commonwealth agencies and departments, offering students a deeper understanding of the variety of roles within the public service. ‘It was really good talking to all of them and learning what they actually do,’ Ciara said.

At the Career Expo, APS employees yarned with students, offering tailored guidance. Torres Strait Islander student Ziggy Vawser appreciated the one-on-one discussions with ADF personnel, noting, ‘They were happy to answer all of our questions without missing a beat.’

The program also emphasised social and cultural connections, ensuring students felt supported. Narungga student Jai Harkin-Noach attended WEX to ‘meet more community and learn more about my culture.’ Reflecting on the experience, he said, ‘I’ve met some really cool people, I’ve lit a fire, and I feel like I’ve learned so much.’

A cultural night concluded the week, providing a lasting memory of empowerment for the students, mentors and organisers.

Wardaman student Ethan Bennetts encourages future participants to embrace the WEX program: ‘try new things, give everything a go and get involved as much as you can’.

WEX regional is a fantastic opportunity for First Nations students to see the scope of Government services outside Canberra. The Australian Government has funded the WEX program since 2010. The program is currently administered by the NIAA and delivered by Indigenous business, ETM Perspectives.