Funding creates new mental health cadetship opportunities

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Darling Downs Health has secured funding through the Queensland State Government’s Better Care Together initiative to help grow the region’s future allied health workforce in mental health services.

The funding will enable the Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs Service (MHAODS) to recruit two allied health cadets, with positions available in dietetics and psychology.

The cadetships will give students practical, hands-on experience working alongside multidisciplinary mental health teams, helping them build valuable skills while strengthening local service capacity.

Executive Director Mental Health, Greg Neilson said the cadetships are a great opportunity to explore a career in mental health.

“A career in mental health offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives every day.”

- Executive Director Mental Health, Greg Neilson

“It is a privilege to support people through some of their most challenging times and be part of their journey towards better health and wellbeing.”

As demand increases across the Darling Downs and South Burnett for MHAODS, this initiative allows Darling Downs Health to support local students to develop their skills and build careers in the region.

“These cadetships create a pathway for students to develop their skills in a real-world healthcare environment, while supporting the important work already being delivered across the region,” Mr Neilson said.

“Meeting the growing demand for mental health care relies on having a skilled and sustainable workforce, and these cadetships are an important investment in that future.”

Darling Downs Health Executive Director Allied Health and Community Services, Louise Van Every said the cadetships would give students valuable opportunities to learn and grow alongside experienced clinicians.

“Allied health professionals play a vital role in helping people achieve better health outcomes, whether that’s supporting recovery, building resilience or helping them navigate life’s challenges,” Ms Van Every said.

“We hope these cadetships give students a deeper understanding of the impact they can have through a career in mental health and encourage them to build their future with Darling Downs Health.”

The cadetships will be offered between November 2026 and June 2027, with each placement providing the equivalent of 12 weeks of full-time experience.

Information about the cadetship opportunities, including how to apply, will be available through Darling Downs Health recruitment channels later this year.