The Territory Labor Government is boosting health services across the Territory with 20 new nurses set to join our local workforce, in a new pilot program with the Indian state of Kerala.
Over the next two years, funding of up to $10,000 per eligible Kerala nurse will be offered to help gain postgraduate upskilling qualifications in key areas of demand in the Territory healthcare system, including mental health, perioperative and renal care.
The innovative pilot program creates new employment pathways in the Territory’s areas of skill shortage, strengthens our health workforce and leverages the strong people to people links between the Northern Territory and Kerala State.
Across the Territory, Kerala is well known for its steady stream of highly qualified nurses and doctors, who have relocated to Darwin, Alice Springs and Katherine, adding to the vibrancy of our local communities.
The Kerala Nurse Pilot Program is a key initiative under a new Memorandum of Understanding and Plan of Action signed by the Northern Territory Government and Government of Kerala this week.
It provides a clear pathway program; a job in the sector, visa sponsorship and support to fine-tune high demand specialisation qualifications to ensure the provision of quality healthcare in the Territory.
Eligible nurses will be able to work in one of the Territory’s key regions, provided they meet Australia’s visa requirements and the accreditation requirements of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council.
Quotes attributable to Chief Minister and Minister for Health Natasha Fyles:
“The pilot program reinforces the growing relationship between Kerala State and the Northern Territory and will strengthen health workforce training and development between our two regions.
“Not only does the Kerala Nurse Pilot Program provide a boost to the Territory’s healthcare sector and create new opportunities for specialty upskilling, it fosters a strong bond of friendship and collaboration between our two regions.
“My government is boosting our health workforce so that Territorians in every region have access to high quality and affordable healthcare.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison:
“Kerala has high education standards and the nurses will be a welcome addition to the health workforce in the Northern Territory.
“The Northern Territory presents unparalleled job opportunities and great potential for career advancement.
“The Northern Territory has a vibrant Indian community which plays an important role in the fabric of our society and help meet our workforce needs.”
Northern Territory Government
