Council's workforce has been bolstered in 2026 with the addition of two cadets focussed on collecting and leveraging data to help guide the organisation's systems and processes.
The Cadet Data Analyst and Cadet Development Engineer joined Council earlier this year under the Fresh Start Program, administered by the NSW Office of Local Government.
Shoalhaven Mayor Patricia White said the program provides councils with funding to hire and support young people to experience a hands-on start to their carer.
"I'm delighted to see more young people keen to pursue a career in local government. Joining Council as a cadet, trainee or apprentice is a fantastic way to learn the ropes while making a real difference in the local community," Cr White said.
"Congratulations to our new cadets on their recruitment to these important roles. Their technical skills and enthusiasm will have an obvious benefit for Council, and I have no doubt they will enjoy great success during their time with the organisation and beyond," she said.
Parva Teli started as a Cadet Data Analyst with Council in January this year and will be supported by the organisation to complete his tertiary studies over two-years. His role supports data-driven decision-making by assisting with data collection, processing, and analysis across Council.
Mr Teli said gaining hands-on experience in his field of study is an invaluable opportunity.
"Being trusted with complex, relevant work so early in my career has accelerated my learning well beyond what a traditional classroom environment can offer. The work is impactful, technically challenging, and contributes to improving the services residents rely on every day," Mr Teli said.
"The program is structured to support my academic commitments while enabling substantial professional growth, which many short-term internships and vacation programs simply cannot provide," he said.
"I was genuinely excited when I found out I had been chosen, because opportunities like this often serve as a true first step into the industry. Beyond the professional experience, the program has also driven substantial personal growth as it has helped me transition from being solely a student to someone capable of balancing professional responsibilities, coursework, and extracurricular commitments with confidence and discipline," he said.
Council successfully won funding under Round 2 of the Fresh Start Program to help cover the cost of employing additional apprentices, trainees and cadets over six years, from January 2025.
