In the mosaic of Australia’s history, certain individuals emerge as beacons of resilience, leadership, and unwavering dedication to equity. Among these figures, Jack Patten stands tall—a luminary whose influence in the quest for Indigenous rights continues to reverberate through time. The Early Years: Seeds of Activism Born in 1905 at Cummeragunja Mission, Jack Patten’s upbringing laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to advocacy. His parents and maternal grandfather instilled in him the value of education, resilience, and a deep sense of justice. These formative years amidst the Murray River instilled in Patten an acute awareness of the hardships faced by Indigenous communities—a realisation that would shape his future endeavors. Championing Change Patten’s journey was multifaceted. From his formative years
As the New Year approaches, it’s an ideal time for job seekers to reflect on their career aspirations and set clear, achievable goals. Whether aiming for a career change, seeking a promotion, or simply looking to enhance professional development, setting SMART goals can significantly influence your career journey. Understanding SMART Goals SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework provides a structured approach to goal-setting, ensuring clarity and focus. Let’s break down each element: Specific:Define your goals precisely. Instead of a vague aim like “advance in my career,” specify what that advancement entails – “attain a managerial position in marketing within the next 12 months.” Measurable:Establish criteria to track progress. How will you measure success? Whether through
Mervyn Bishop, born in July 1945, stands as an icon in the realm of Australian news and documentary photography. His remarkable journey began in 1962 when he joined The Sydney Morning Herald as a cadet, marking a groundbreaking milestone as the first Aboriginal Australian photographer hired by the newspaper. In doing so, he became the first Aboriginal person to work on a metropolitan daily newspaper and one of the earliest Indigenous professional photographers. Hailing from the Murri community and born in Brewarrina, north-west New South Wales, Bishop’s upbringing was shaped by a family that defied societal norms. His father, “Minty” Bishop, born to an Aboriginal mother and Punjabi Indian father, obtained an “exemption certificate,” allowing the family to live outside
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial, and annual leave stands as a vital right cherished by employees across various industries. However, clarifying who qualifies and navigating approval processes can be complex. Determining entitlements to annual leave relies on specific regulations governed by diverse factors like employment contracts and legal frameworks. Employers shoulder both obligations and rights regarding granting or denying annual leave requests, necessitating insight into legal requisites. Who Qualifies and How Is It Calculated? Annual leave entitlements are delineated in the National Employment Standards, varying based on employment type. In Australia, full-time employees accumulate four weeks of annual leave per year (equivalent to 20 days), while part-time employees accrue at a pro rata rate. Casual employees, however, do
As December rolls in, there’s a common belief that the job market slows down during the holiday season. However, this time can offer unique opportunities for job seekers. Embracing this period strategically can open doors to unexpected possibilities. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to leverage December effectively in your job search journey. Embrace Networking, Embrace Opportunity · During December, communities come together for celebrations. These gatherings aren’t just about festivities; they’re opportunities to network. Engage in conversations, share your aspirations, and inquire about potential job openings within your community network. · In a digital age, virtual connections are as valuable as face-to-face meetings. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn, professional groups, or forums where industry professionals or employers gather. Engage in
Tell us about you and your mob? My name is Kyah. I am a Walbunja woman from the Yuin nation. The Walbunja mob are saltwater people who spend a lot of time in and around the water. Growing up, I spent most holidays, weekends and spare time in Moruya, NSW. It was there, alongside my father and grandfather, that my connection to water and marine life was solidified. Tell us about your Career? I am a research technician at CSIRO, within the Environment unit. My career with CSIRO began in the Agriculture and Food unit, researching my own project on different species of seagrass, which was fascinating! Currently, I am working on a NESP Project, looking at barriers faced by
As December rolls around, it brings not just the festive cheer but also an opportune moment to reflect on personal growth and development. For job seekers this month can mark the beginning of an exciting journey toward accessing educational resources, scholarships, and training programs tailored to their needs and aspirations for 2024. Educational Resources Numerous institutions and online platforms prioritise Indigenous education, offering a range of courses, workshops, and resources. For instance, the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) collaborates with schools, universities, and businesses to provide scholarships, mentoring, and career support to Indigenous students. Moreover, TAFE (Technical and Further Education) Institutes across Australia offer an array of vocational courses and certifications. These institutes often have dedicated units or programs designed
In the pursuit of creating an equitable workforce, it’s imperative to acknowledge the unconscious biases that can seep into our job advertisements. Bias, often stemming from stereotypes and unconscious attitudes, can unintentionally deter certain candidates. Addressing these biases and ensuring job ads resonate with a diverse audience, including Indigenous Australians, is crucial. Here are five key tips to consider when crafting your job ads: 1. Focus on the Role, Not Stereotypes: Traditional job ads tend to cater to stereotypes, assuming certain roles are suited for specific genders or abilities. Avoid these assumptions by delving into the specific requirements of the role. For instance, if you’re hiring a receptionist, ask yourself: Can someone in a wheelchair perform this role effectively? Ensure
Greetings, job hunters and future success stories! So, you’ve aced the interview – congrats! But wait, there’s one more step before you can officially celebrate landing that dream job: the perfect follow-up letter or email. Crafting this message is like adding the tomato sauce on top of your interview pie – it leaves a lasting impression and shows just how enthusiastic and professional you are. Don’t fret; we’ve got your back with this friendly, step-by-step guide that turns the follow-up game into a breeze! Step 1: Fast as a Kangaroo, Sharp as a Tasmanian Devil Sending your follow-up promptly, within 24-48 hours, is like showing up to the interview in your best outfit – it’s a must! This speedy response
In the heart of New South Wales, amidst the vibrant tapestry of Aboriginal cultures, a remarkable man named Isaiah Dawe emerged as a beacon of hope and empowerment for his community. A proud Butchulla and Garawa Aboriginal man, Isaiah’s journey is not just a testament to his resilience but also a shining example of how one individual can make a substantial impact on the lives of others. From Adversity to Advocacy: A Personal Odyssey Isaiah’s story begins with a moment of profound upheaval. At the tender age of 17, he found himself faced with homelessness; his foster carer informed him he could no longer stay. In the midst of this crisis, he faced the daunting challenge of completing his Higher