Looking for a new career opportunity, Tara applied for a construction traineeship after attending an ATSI presentation by the Aboriginal Employment Strategy for traineeship opportunities in construction.

Tara started on the project as part of the WestConnex new M5 ATSI pre-employment program.

Training started with two weeks at TAFE, followed by a residential program where she undertook learning in workshops, the classroom and site visits.

She has complemented her Certificate II in Civil Construction studies with extra tickets and plant training, and plans to continue her education through VET.

A proud Aboriginal woman, Tara is a role model for her family and community, and thrilled with her life’s direction. She encourages anyone with a desire to work in construction to go for it, saying it has changed the way she looks at herself, and improved her confidence and self-worth.