The Aboriginal Cadetship Program provides an opportunity for you to gain valuable work experience whilst studying towards your Bachelor degree, and is a great way to step straight into employment when you finish studying!

This brochure provides detailed information on how the Aboriginal Cadetship Program can help you find the career you are looking for.

The Department for Child Protection is committed to attracting and retaining Aboriginal people as a vital part of our diverse and talented workforce.

We are aiming for our workforce to better reflect our client base to ensure that the services we provide are responsive and appropriate to their needs.

YOUR CAREER - THEIR FUTUREAboriginal Cadetships in Child Protection

What do I receive while I’m studying my degree?

• $1,938.29 (before tax) per fortnight for a 12 week paid work placement during semester breaks.

• Study allowance of $600 (before tax) per fortnight whilst studying full time (40 weeks per year).

• $500 per semester towards books and equipment.

• Training, learning and development opportunities that are specific to your role.

• Possibility of permanent employment on successful completion of cadetship.

You will be part of a supportive mentoring network with senior staff within the Department who you can turn to for advice, support and encouragement throughout the Cadetship.

Does the Department pay my university fees?

No, the Department does not directly pay your university fees (HECS, tuition fees) or fees and loans under HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP schemes. You may choose to use your study allowance or the additional money from your work placement to contribute towards this yourself.

Will my Centrelink payments be effected?

If you receive Centrelink payments, then you must advise Centrelink immediately upon being accepted into the Cadetship Program as it may effect your payments. For more information visit the Centrelink website at www.centrelink.gov.au. Cadets are not eligible for Abstudy payments.

Am I eligible to apply for the Aboriginal Cadetship Program?

If you are:

• studying towards a university degree in a Social Work, Psychology or other relevant human services course of study;

• studying full time at a university located within Western Australia;

• identifiedasanAustralianAboriginal;and

• accepted as such by the community in which you live, or have lived,

then you are eligible to apply!

How do I apply for a Cadetship?

Please visit www.jobs.wa.gov.au and search position number CP3135 for details on how to apply. Further information regarding application for intake 2012 will be available on the Department’s website and on campus during Semester 1.

To be placed on the mailing list, please send an email request to Rina.Murtaza@dcp.wa.gov.au. An application package will be sent to all those on the register who meet the eligibility requirements.

To be prepared for the application process, start thinking about organising the following documents as they will be required during the recruitment process.

• A current resume.

• A two page covering letter addressing the relevant selection criteria.

• Transcript of results and confirmation of enrolment from your University.

• Proof of Aboriginality document.

You will also need to register as a Cadet with the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations. Registrations can be made before or after you submit an application to the Department. Register online at www.ics.deewr.gov.au.

How will my application be assessed?

The assessment process consists of a number of stages:

1. An assessment of the information you provided.

2. Successful applicants will be short-listed and invited to an interview.

3. Selection will be based on both your written application and your interview.

4. All applicants will be notified in writing after the selection is finalised, and feedback will be provided on request.

Our mission is to protect and care for children, and support people at risk of crisis. Our major focus is on meeting the needs of

vulnerable children and families.

How long is the Cadetship?

Your Cadetship will be for a period of 52 weeks, made up of a 12 week paid placement and a 40 week study period. The Cadetship will continue in this cycle until you have completed your studies.

What responsibilities will I have if I accept the Cadetship?

You must provide the Department with evidence of full time enrolment and statements of academic records at the commencement and conclusion of each semester respectively.

You will also need to complete a 12 week paid work placement throughout the year, preferably in one block during a semester break.

What happens when I complete my studies?

Once you graduate, you will need to send in a copy of your final academic transcript as evidence that you have completed your course. Once we receive this, you are eligible to apply for a relevant Child Protection role with the Department.

What happens if I defer my studies?

You must notify the Cadetship Co-ordinator immediately as this will effect your participation in the Cadetship program. Your payments will also be effected.

Where can I get more information?

For advice on your eligibility, or for further information about this exciting opportunity, please contact Rina Murtaza, Cadetship Co-ordinator on (08) 9222 2779 or visit www.ics.deewr.gov.au/Student/Information.aspx.

The Indigenous Cadetship Support (ICS) program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR).

See the ICS website for more information: http://www.ics.deewr.gov.au/

For more information about the Department, visit our website at www.childprotection.wa.gov.au.