How CUCs, Universities and Government are Working Together to Meet Local Needs

A new Certificate IV in Health Traineeship delivered by the University of Wollongong at the Country Universities Centre Snowy Monaro is supporting the development of a local health workforce while opening new study pathways for the community.

Cooma participants in the UOW healthcare traineeship program are with program supporter Yvi Henderson (second left), CUC Snowy Monaro centre coordinator, Bronte Tozer (far right) and UOW regional campuses manager, Samantha Avitaia (third right).

Based in Cooma, the program is funded the Australian Government under the Integrated Care and Commissioning Initiative and the NSW Government under the NSW Smart & Skilled program. It combines formal training with hands-on experience, with local health, disability and community service organisations providing practical placement opportunities for students.

This program is designed to be flexible and bring new people into the healthcare sector, whether they be young school leavers to career changers and support them to train and work locally.

The current cohort includes nine students, with strong support from local organisations helping to deliver practical outcomes for the region.

Among them is student Michelle Brown, who works as an NDIS Disability Support Worker and Coordinator with Monaro Community First (formerly Cooma Challenge). The organisation is also supporting the program by providing work placement opportunities for students.

“I’m really impressed with the course content, the support from the University of Wollongong and CUC Snowy Monaro staff, and the great facilities,” Ms Brown said.

“This course is a great opportunity to help fill gaps in the care and health workforce in Cooma.”

Centre Manager of CUC Snowy Monaro, Nadine Holland, said the initiative reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s workforce.

“We’re seeing what’s possible when education and community come together. By collaborating with universities and local organisations, CUC Snowy Monaro is helping people access training and step into meaningful roles within their own region.”

“Students are not only achieving a qualification, but also building the confidence to continue their study at university if they choose. They’re now connected with CUC Snowy Monaro, which means ongoing support is there for whatever comes next.”

Through direct partnerships with local service providers, the traineeship responds to current demand across the health and community services sectors, supporting services to grow their local workforce.

The program offers participants a nationally recognised qualification, while also creating a pathway into further study in health-related fields, supporting long-term career opportunities without the need to leave the region.