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“We all know each other and our teacher understands that Mob comes first.”
Rachel Ingrey
Eight Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from southwest Sydney are breaking barriers in the health and community services sector, paving the way to address underrepresentation and improve outcomes for their mob.
This tight knit group, who work at Gandangara Local Aboriginal Land Council (GLALC) Health Services and Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, recently graduated with a Diploma of Counselling from TAFE NSW Wetherill Park. This is one of several qualifications they’ve added to their skill set, having also graduated from certificates in youth work, mental health, and alcohol and drug support. In 2025, they plan to further their study through a Diploma of Community Services.
Research from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) highlights that Indigenous health staff build better rapport and trust with Indigenous patients, enhancing communication and reducing anxiety.This representation is critical, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people remain significantly underrepresented in the health workforce across Australia.
This holds true for Rachel Ingrey who is among the Diploma of Counselling graduates. With her multiple qualifications, she recently transitioned to the role of practice coordinator at the GLALC Health Services in Liverpool.
“Most days, someone comes in during a crisis or affected by drugs and alcohol,” Ms Ingrey said. “Growing up in Green Valley, I know many people in the community—they trust me and feel comfortable talking. The Diploma of Counselling has boosted my confidence and strengthened my ability to support patients, de-escalate crises, and simply be there to listen. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that it’s not always about finding solutions but being present and letting people feel heard.”
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