In September 2023, during the third year of her social work degree, Mell was awarded the Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship. What followed was not just professional development, but a profound sense of personal and cultural connection.
"I can't speak highly enough of the program," she says with pride.
“It's not just about the educational experiences; it's the cultural connections. Meeting others studying the same thing, attending forums, and forming lifelong bonds is what makes this Cadetship special."Mellissa Johnson (2023 Aboriginal Allied Health Cadet)
A six-week placement at Hornsby's social work department, followed by a placement at Royal North Shore Hospital, led directly to Mell being offered what she calls her “dream job". Through the support of the NSW Ministry of Health and Northern Sydney Local Health District, she felt seen, celebrated, and valued as both a social worker and an Aboriginal woman stepping into a vital role.
“It's complex working in health," she explains, “but I was supported every step of the way. I was welcomed in a way that felt culturally safe and respectful."
Mell encourages other Aboriginal women – especially mature-aged students – to consider the NSW Health Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship. “There's a misconception that they can't do it. But there are different pathways to your dream job. The cadetship gives you an extra advantage. You gain real work experience, get paid, and build strong networks."
When asked what she wishes more people understood about working in allied health as an Aboriginal person, she says: “It's really well supported. Aboriginal social workers are so important. When we connect with our patient, we're connecting with community."
To Mell, culturally safe care means more than just understanding – it's about trust, empathy, and shared experience. “It means not having to explain yourself. It's being able to speak without fear of judgement or having your words used against you. It's knowing you're in a safe place where people respond and support you the right way."
Applications for the 2026 Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship program are now open for eligible Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students in their final two years of study.
Find out more at NSW Aboriginal Allied Health Cadetship – Online Application App.