Deadly Jargums Project
Program Purpose
The Walanmarra Aboriginal Women’s Internship Program is designed to provide a culturally safe, paid employment pathway for Aboriginal women who have experienced barriers to education and work. Delivered by Deadly Connections, an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO), the program supports women to build skills, confidence and stability while gaining real-world experience in a supportive community environment.
Walanmarra (Wiradjuri for “to make strong”) reflects the program’s focus on empowerment, healing and self-determination.
Target Participants
The program is open to Aboriginal women aged 18 years and over who may be experiencing complex employment barriers, including:
- Trauma or lived experience with systems
- Disrupted education
- Limited work history
- Caring responsibilities
- Social, emotional or economic challenges
Participants are women who are motivated to learn, grow and explore pathways into community services or related employment.
Learning Approach
Walanmarra uses a trauma-informed, strengths-based and culturally responsive learning model that combines:
Hands-on, practical workplace experience
One-on-one mentoring and supervision
Group yarning and reflective learning
Skills-based workshops
Cultural safety and community connection
Learning is paced, supportive and tailored to each participant’s needs, ensuring women feel safe, valued and capable throughout their journey.
Duration & Structure
Length: 3-month paid internship
Workdays: Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday
Start date: Interns rotate through different program areas, gaining exposure to community services, administration, youth work, event coordination and support roles.
Intended Outcomes
By the end of the program, participants will:
- Develop transferable workplace skills
- Build confidence and professional identity
- Strengthen communication and teamwork abilities
- Improve emotional wellbeing and stability
- Gain work references and experience
- Identify future career or study pathways
Pathways & Support
The program actively supports participants to transition into:
Further education or training
Paid employment (internal or external)
Community services roles
Traineeships or ongoing internships
Participants receive career guidance, resume support, interview preparation and referrals to external opportunities.
Impact
Walanmarra empowers Aboriginal women to step into meaningful employment while staying connected to culture, community and healing. The program strengthens individual capacity and contributes to long-term community wellbeing.
