Vicki strengthens her voice for the community through study

A proud Wiradjuri woman whose family bloodlines stem from Peak Hill in New South Wales, Vicki is deeply committed to strengthening outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.

As a graduate of the Diploma of Child, Youth and Family Intervention (CHC50321), she now works within the Delegated Authority team at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service (ATSICHS) - a role that supports greater self-determination for the community in child protection matters.

“My focus is around minimising the impact of Child Protection systems on mob, and being part of meaningful change in this space,” Vicki said.

The Delegated Authority model ensures that cultural authority and community voice are embedded in decisions that affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.

For Vicki, contributing to this work is both a professional responsibility and a personal calling.

Although she had worked towards a diploma more than a decade ago, Vicki discovered it was not formally recognised when she commenced her current role.

Through a partnership between ATSICHS and TAFE Queensland, she was supported to re-enter study and complete her diploma.

This partnership sees TAFE Queensland teachers work with ATSICHS staff, sharing knowledge and practical skills to continue raising the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the wider Brisbane and Logan communities.

Delivered in ATSICHS training rooms at their Bullang Bujerim site in Logan, and taught by Community Services teacher Debra Stephens, Vicki's skills and self-confidence were both professionally developed and enhanced.

Returning to the classroom while balancing work and family commitments was no small feat - but it became a transformative experience, made successful thanks to the efforts of Debra Stephens.

“Deb brings decades of industry insights, knowledge, and cultural sensitivity to each session, and was an integral part of my re-entrance into learning and successfully obtaining my Diploma,” Vicki said.

Deb also took the time to review Vicki’s previous studies and identify transferable skills, carefully mapping them against current qualification requirements.

She developed a personalised learning plan that acknowledged prior learning while integrating new coursework and practical application.

“Her plan balanced my work priorities and paved the way to achieving the outcomes being celebrated,” Vicki said.

Vicki describes Deb as inspirational - a teacher whose deep industry knowledge, cultural respect and genuine care for her students created a supportive and empowering learning environment.

“I hold the deepest respect for Deb, along with TAFE Queensland and ATSICHS, for supporting my growth.”

The diploma has strengthened Vicki’s confidence and enhanced her capacity to advocate for families navigating complex systems. It has also positioned her to expand her impact within the sector.

Next on her horizon is completing a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122), with a long-term goal of mentoring and upskilling others working in child protection and community services.

“I want to replicate the dedication and commitment to upskilling workers in understanding the intersectionality of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customs and culture with systemic intervention,” Vicki said.

For Vicki, education is not just about career progression - it is about building capability within the community and ensuring cultural knowledge and professional practice walk hand in hand.