Barriers and enablers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander careers in health: A qualitative, multisector study in western New South Wales

Objective Growing a strong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce is key to closing the gap in health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. This study sought to explore barriers and enablers to career development for Aboriginal health staff and potential strategies to enhance career pathways. Design Qualitative study, with data collected primarily through focus group discussions (yarning circles) at different health workplaces. Setting Western New South Wales. Participants Aboriginal health staff (n = 54) from Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services, a Local Health District and a Primary Health Network, and their managers (Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal; n = 28). Main outcome measures Identified barriers and enablers and regional strategies for improving career pathways. Results Aboriginal people interested in pursuing a career in health face barriers in: pre-employment, recruitment, the workplace and further education and training. Being given practical and emotional support, as well as opportunities, makes a difference at every stage. Family and community are very influential in career decisions. Within the workplace, culturally appropriate human resource systems and management structures are vital. The ability to obtain employment and access education and training locally is important to rural and remote communities. Conclusion To enhance health career pathways for Aboriginal people, strategies are needed at all levels: community, organisation, system and society. Aboriginal leadership and self-determination are crucial, as are partnerships within the health sector and between the health and the education and training sectors. Cultural safety is essential to expansion of the Aboriginal workforce, and to health care experiences and outcomes for Aboriginal community members.

Automated summary

Developing a strong Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce is crucial for narrowing the health outcomes gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. Barriers faced by Aboriginal individuals in pursuing health careers include pre-employment, recruitment, workplace, and further education and training. Providing support and opportunities at every stage, as well as culturally appropriate human resource systems, are essential for enhancing career pathways for Aboriginal people.