5 December 2025
First Nations people across the Northern Territory will have greater access to Vocational Education and Training (VET) that leads to meaningful employment, through a $35 million investment by the Albanese and Finocchiaro Governments.
Funding - $17.5 million from the Albanese Government and $17.5 million from the Finocchiaro Government - will be provided for Closing the Gap initiatives across the Territory that support First Nations learners, workforce and staff working with organisations and communities to improve VET in the NT.
The measures include:
Establishing a First Nations Registered Training Organisation (RTO) advisory group to guide a VET sector strategy to boost First Nations participation in training;Strengthening and growing the First Nations VET sector and workforce by investing in targeted support and the development of innovative training models aimed at expanding delivery of courses, particularly in remote communities; andImproving culturally-responsive capability in the VET sector in the NT by piloting resources, enhancing engagement, and expanding tailored support for learners and staff.
Delivered under the National Skills Agreement (NSA), these initiatives confirm the Governments' commitment to Closing the Gap by increasing First Nations participation in education and training, strengthening community-controlled organisations, and creating culturally safe learning environments.
Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles:
"The Albanese Government is backing Australians right across the country to get the skills they want for the jobs local communities need - and this includes across every corner of the Northern Territory.
"We're backing First Nations Territorians to be a part of a strong and sustainable First Nations VET sector, so that students can benefit from great training opportunities, and teachers can benefit from the support they need to prepare their students for their future careers.
"This $35 million joint investment from our Governments is focused on delivering effective, culturally responsive and community-led training through strengthened partnerships with First Nations RTOs and communities."
Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey:
"Through a strong local partnership, we have co-designed the Bilateral Implementation Plan to strengthen the Aboriginal VET sector and create real opportunities for people in remote communities.
"I was fortunate to recently visit the Dijan Training facility in my electorate of Katherine, where Aboriginal students will commence Certificate III and IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care in the Big Rivers region in 2026.
"Together with the NT First Nations RTO Advisory Group, we are committed to activating this plan and delivering lasting benefits for learners, communities, and the Territory's workforce."
