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Ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Year 12 students from Toowoomba and the South Burnett regions have graduated from the Deadly Start Program, marking a major step in building a stronger, more inclusive health workforce across the Darling Downs.
The 18‑month pilot program, launched in February 2024, combined classroom learning with hands‑on hospital experience, with students dedicating one day a week to work at a local hospital for 50 weeks.
Eight of the graduates will now pursue nursing studies at university, with seven enrolling at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) in Toowoomba, helping the region grow its own workforce.
Paige from St Ursula’s College said the program gave her confidence and clarity.
“I’ve always wanted to be a nurse, especially after seeing my grandad in a nursing home,” she said.
Helping people with daily tasks, even the simplest ones, made me proud and has confirmed nursing is the right path for me.
Paige, student
Bridie from The Glennie School, who grew up in Goondiwindi, said the program gave her the foundation she needed.
“The program helped me build connections with patients and friendships with staff, giving me the basics of nursing and practical application,” Bridie said.
“I hope to work in a rural health facility in the future, maybe specialising in midwifery.”
Darling Downs Health Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Workforce Project Manager, Kim Besley Scott said the program has exceeded expectations.
“Many of the trainees have told me the experience has been so much more enjoyable than they imagined, and a majority have realised their potential and aspiration for a career in nursing,” she said.
“It has been rewarding to witness mentors and trainees learning from each other, strengthening and inspiring the next generation of nurses.
“The program is contributing to building a more inclusive and courageous workforce, closing the gap in health services for diverse communities.”
Darling Downs Health Director Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Service, Todd Williams said that the health service has some big plans for strengthening the program.
“In the next five years, we want to see the program embedded and operating sustainably, continuing to build our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce and delivering on our Health Equity Strategy,” said Mr Williams.
Recruitment is now underway for Year 10 students to join the next intake, which will commence in Term 1, 2026.
Students participating in the program first complete a Certificate II in Health Support Services, followed by 375 hours of practical training to achieve a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance.
The Deadly Start Program is a Queensland Health initiative offering a pathway for graduates to progress into the Cadet Program while studying at university.