“This is not just a job; it is a calling”. That’s what Martha Inifiri had to say last week on completion of her aged care training.
This year, under the Aged Care Expansion (ACE) Program, Australia has supported 100 Solomon Islands women to attain the qualifications needed for them to work in Australia as certified personal care workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme.
The women were recruited from the Work Ready Pool and undertook eight weeks of intensive training.
The third cohort of aged care workers received their certificates at a graduation ceremony on 20 December at the National Referral Hospital (NRH).
Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency Rod Hilton said “to date, over 8,255 Solomon Islanders have participated in the PALM scheme, and we are working to increase this number.
“It’s great to see so many women interested in aged care, and I extend my congratulations to this latest cohort of graduates.”
ACE cohort 3 student representative, Ms Inifiri acknowledged the importance of the training.
“We learn not only practical skills like assist with mobility and perform personal care tasks but also how to give our time, attention and kindness to those who need it most.”
Australia is committed to creating jobs for Solomon Islanders, including through upskilling and training.
“Solomon Islanders have a good reputation in Australia and I am hopeful that the skills and qualifications the graduates have acquired under the ACE program will put them in a good stead with future employers”, His Excellency Hilton said.
In her speech to fellow graduates, Ms Inifiri said, “aged care is a field like no other. It’s about more than just meeting physical needs, it’s about connecting with people on a human level, hearing their stories and bring comfort and dignity into their lives…
“The people we will care for are trusting us to be their advocates, their comfort, and their strength during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.
“Let us embrace this responsibility with pride and humility, knowing that the work we do has the power to bring comfort, hope and dignity to others.”
Under the Solomon Islands-Australia partnership, expanding and improving the PALM scheme is a shared priority.
The Aged Care Expansion Program will provide more opportunities for qualified Solomon Islanders to get jobs under the PALM scheme.
- AHC
