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Aboriginal Education and Training

TAFE Western is geographically the largest of the TAFE NSW Institutes incorporating country traditionally owned by the Wiradjuri, Ngemba, Muruwari, Barkindji, Wailwan, Wongaibon and Gamilaroi peoples.

In 2010, TAFE Western had 7,133 Aboriginal student enrolments (compared to 6,543 in 2009) with Aboriginal students, accounting for 17% of the Institute's student population, compared to a state average of 4.3%.  This makes the organisation the largest single provider of vocational education and training for Aboriginal people in Australia.

Aboriginal Education and Training Unit

TAFE Western's Aboriginal Education and Training Unit provides leadership to the organisation's efforts in closing the gap in the disadvantage that Aboriginal people experience in relation to employment and education.

Strong guidance in Aboriginal Education and Training is provided by the Aboriginal Community Reference Group and the priorities of the organisation or documented in a Statement of Intent. 

Mr Rod Towney is the Manager of the Aboriginal Education and Training Unit.  He can be contacted by phone on 02 6883 3470 and by email.

Aboriginal Community Consultants

TAFE Western's Aboriginal Community Consultants are responsible for:

• Community consultation & engagement
• Strategic course development to meet the demands of both community & industry
• Supporting TAFE Western's faculties to customise flexible learning programs for Aboriginal students
• Promoting local cultural knowledge & advice & activities to support Institute personnel in observing cultural protocols
• Ensuring that Aboriginal & community organisations aspirations & learning needs are integrated into Institute strategic priorities

The Consultants can be contacted on the numbers listed below:

Student Support Officers

Aboriginal Student Support Officers which are located at Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo, Bourke, Walgett and Broken Hill.  These staff work to:

• Provide advice and support to Aboriginal students about course offerings; tutorial support; other TAFE and Government support services; teacher liaison and other matters
• Provide assistance and support to teachers to maintain attendance of enrolled students
• Promote culturally appropriate materials to staff and students
• Coordinate cultural andsocial activities across TAFE Western colleges to create a culturally appropriate & welcoming environment
• Conduct college tours for community, school and other groups