INDIGENOUS STUDENTS URGED TO TAKE ON NRW CADETSHIPS

Indigenous university students are being offered the chance to work at the cutting edge of Queensland land and water management while being paid up to $13,000 a year to study.

Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace said the department’s new cadetships for Indigenous students were a great way for students to kick-start their career.

“Students get the chance to work with industry leaders while getting paid to study,” Mr Wallace said.

Applications for the department’s inaugural round of Indigenous cadetships close on April 23, 2007.

Mr Wallace said the department offered a range of Indigenous cadetships across disciplines including agricultural science, communications, engineering, forestry and geology.

“NRW has the important role of managing Queensland’s natural resources for the future,” he said.

“The department works with industry, the community, landholders and government to ensure the management of our natural resources is innovative, responsible and balanced.

“I am inviting Indigenous students to be part of this exciting work.”

Mr Wallace said NRW Indigenous cadetships offered a study allowance of $6,000 a semester, a book allowance of $1,000 a semester, as well as 12 weeks of paid vacation work a year.

NRW is offering the cadetships to Indigenous students through the National Indigenous Cadetship Program. The program is a federal initiative that aims to improve Indigenous people’s job prospects.

Full details of the application process can be found by visiting www.nrw.qld.gov.au/about/employment

Applications must be received no later than 5pm on April 23, 2007.

Media inquiries: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 3896 3689 or 0407 131 654.