The Allied Health Deadly Pathway, a program within Metro South Health (MSH) is designed to transform workforce opportunities for allied health professionals who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Our pathway is more than just a project; it's a commitment to reshaping the landscape of healthcare by fostering inclusion and representation.
Through targeted recruitment efforts and comprehensive support systems, our pathway is actively creating routes for individuals to thrive in clinical and leadership roles within MSH. This is about creating a healthcare environment where cultural understanding and excellence are intrinsic to every aspect of our work. Together, we can build a future where all voices are heard, and everyone can contribute to a healthier, more equitable society.
The pathway has been crafted through collaboration with both internal and external stakeholders, leveraging existing and emerging programs to align and embed them into current and future allied health services. It was developed to pinpoint and define various entry points at different career stages, mirroring the successful framework of the MSH Nursing Deadly Pathway. To operationalise our strategic plan effectively, several key components have been integrated into the pathway: The Deadly Start Program, Indigenous Cadetship Program, New Graduate Program, and Allied Health First Nations in Leadership.
The Deadly Start Program is the entry point for the pathway. This program is operated on a statewide level through Metro North HHS. Various entities offer support for the traineeship program, including regular check-ins conducted by Metro North Health Service Deadly Starts team, online forums by MSH Diversity and Inclusion Team, and mentoring support from the MSH First Nations Directorate and external organisations.
The Cadetship Program targets Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Allied Health university students, providing them with paid work-placement opportunities during their studies. The program aims to foster a culturally sensitive workplace and promote MSH as an attractive employer. Similarly, the First Nations Graduate Pathway offers culturally safe entry-to-practice opportunities for new graduates.
To support the retention and career progression of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander professionals within the allied health workforce, MSH has implemented Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Workforce in Leadership program. This initiative aims to provide career development, advancement, and cultural support while improving understanding and implementation of culturally safe practices in the workplace. Through strategies such as improved identification accuracy, mentoring and support, flexible work arrangements, and non-standard recruitment methods, MSH is actively working towards creating a diverse and inclusive workforce reflective of the community it serves.
