Navy celebrated the achievements of its newest Navy Indigenous Development Program (NIDP) graduates this month, marking the end of a powerful journey of growth, challenge and self‑discovery.
On the HMAS Cairns quarterdeck, graduates took part in a formal parade in front of family, friends, community members and Defence representatives, including Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh, and newly appointed Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Darren Grogan.
Mr Keogh inspected the graduates and congratulated them during his address.
“This is the beginning of a journey shaping all of your futures,” he said.
“Your connection to country, your perspectives, the individual skills that you bring and your commitment as First Nations custodians are invaluable.”
The new recruits join a cohort of more than 300 NIDP graduates since 2014.
Having met all the academic requirements, one NIDP recruit commenced the New Entry Sailors Course at the RAN Recruit School in May, and two graduates intend to join Army as cargo specialists.
Graduates of the latest NIDP intake represent Queensland, New South Wales and Western Australia.
Rear Admiral Grogan said the program delivered lasting benefits for individuals, their communities and Defence.
“The NIDP proves that potential is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t always,” he said.
“These graduates have stepped forward, backed themselves and earned skills that set them up for whatever comes next, in our Navy, broader Defence and beyond.”
‘Today, we celebrate us having the courage to start, the resilience to persist and the quiet growth that happens when we refuse to give up.’
The NIDP is a five-month training program, open to First Nations Australians aged 17 to 35, designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to contribute to a stronger and more capable naval workforce. This includes training in education, fitness, leadership and workplace skills.
Graduates complete a TAFE Queensland course equivalent to Year 10 mathematics and English, creating a foundation for further study or employment. The program also includes practical maritime exposure and cultural immersion activities with local communities.
Recruit of the Intake recipient, Recruit Shartarni Brown, spoke about the cohort’s journey during the 22 weeks.
“When I joined NIDP, I was looking for a chance to believe in myself again,” she said.
“Today, we celebrate us having the courage to start, the resilience to persist and the quiet growth that happens when we refuse to give up.”
Mr Keogh signed off his address with words of support and encouragement to the recruits.
“You are already part of a proud tradition of First Nations Australians who have served their country with distinction,” Mr Keogh said.
“Carry that pride with you, carry your culture with you, carry the lessons you have learned and carry the values that you represent into everything that you do.”
