Good News Stories

NAIDOC in Remote Communities

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation celebrates NAIDOC Week 2025 with its first community events in Yandeyarra and Warralong.

New Skills, Fresh Confidence: Hairdressing Training Brings Opportunity and Empowerment to Jigalong

In Jigalong, a hands-on Hairdressing Skill Set course is empowering local women with practical skills, confidence, and new employment pathways. Supported by Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation, this training is building stronger futures through community-led learning.

South Hedland’s First BBQ Connect Fires Up Community Spirit

Fresh off the grill and full of heart, AAC South Hedland’s first BBQ Connect brought jobseekers, employers, and service providers together over a tasty roll and a chat—breaking down barriers and building pathways to opportunity.

Sebastian’s Lane Journey to Employment

Sebastian’s journey with Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation began with a simple need for ID—but it quickly became a story of growth, training, and new opportunities. With support from AAC, he overcame key barriers and is now thriving in formal employment. His story shows the power of perseverance and community support working hand in hand.

Proud Milestone and Bright Future Ahead for Jake

With the support of AAC’s Learn to Drive Program, Jake got his P-plates, completed trade training, and now has a job with Maali Mechanics as a Trade Assistant.

Building Community Spirit Through Bingo and the Op Shop

AAC’s revived Bingo sessions and inaugural Op Shop launch brought laughter, leadership, and lasting community impact.

Empowering Pathways at AAC

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation and Pilbara Community Legal Service hosted a powerful workshop supporting job seekers to regain their driver’s licences and improve financial wellbeing.

North Regional TAFE Open Day Connects AAC Jobseekers with Career Pathways

AAC jobseekers explored hands-on career and training opportunities at North Regional TAFE’s open day in South Hedland, connecting with staff, touring facilities, and discovering future pathways.

Record Month for Containers for Change Boosts Local Economy

Record Achievement: 455,534 Containers Processed In an outstanding display of teamwork and dedication, Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation’s (AAC) Containers for Change

Creating Career Opportunities in Our Community

AAC kicked off an exciting new initiative aimed at opening up employment and training opportunities for people in the Pilbara region.

Exciting Changes at Yandeyarra Women’s Centre!

The Yandeyarra Women’s Centre is transforming into a vibrant, welcoming space thanks to the hard work of the Yandeyarra Ladies and community support.

JS Overcomes Challenges and Secures Ongoing Employment

JS’s journey from jobseeker to success proves that determination and support make all the difference.

Recovery Efforts After Cyclone Zelia

After Cyclone Zelia, volunteers united to restore a shelter, aid evacuees, and receive recognition for their dedication to community recovery.

New Careers Begin with AAC and Tyrepower

Two jobseekers with no prior experience are now thriving at Tyrepower, thanks to AAC’s tailored support in training, transport, and job readiness.

JS’s Success in the Health Sector

JS joined the Health Sector Work Ready Programme eager to start a career. Despite a late start, she quickly impressed her trainers with her dedication. After four weeks of training, she secured a traineeship, proving that hard work and the right support can open doors.

Julie’s Hard Work Pays Off

As an AAC jobseeker for several years, Julie was referred to multiple job opportunities, but it wasn’t until she was connected with Tarni Resources that she truly found her footing.

AAC Delivers Essential Supplies After Cyclone

Following recent cyclone conditions, AAC was contacted by Ms Roslyn Alec, Community Liaison Officer for WA Police, seeking assistance for the Warralong community. With roads blocked and resources scarce, we stepped in to help ensure locals had the supplies they needed.

A Jobseeker’s Inspiring Journey in Karratha

We’re celebrating an incredible jobseeker from Karratha who has overcome significant challenges to build a career she truly loves.

AAC South Hedland Gives Back to Community

At AAC South Hedland, we know that meaningful employment changes lives—but it wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of local employers. That’s why we recently took the time to celebrate those who have supported jobseekers in reaching their 26-week milestones.

Ashburton and Embrace Partner to Build Healthcare Careers

At Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation (AAC), we are dedicated to helping Aboriginal communities grow through employment and training opportunities. One of

Digital Literacy Skill Set Training

AAC Tom Price asked our Job Seekers about their interest in the four-day Digital Literacy course the Tom Price campus

Healthy Hustle: Cooking & Wellness for Jobseekers

Integrated Care Team and AAC Team Up for Healthy Living Workshop In a collaborative effort to promote wellness among jobseekers,

Lifelong Goal Achieved

Peggy Gibbs, a driven job seeker from Jigalong, embarked on an extraordinary journey to earn her driver’s licence —a goal

Milestone Achieved for Talisha

In the remote community of Nullagine, a significant new chapter has unfolded for Talisha Francis, a proud member of the

Kane’s Journey to Success

A Promising Start Meet Kane, a dynamic 21-year-old from the Wakathuni Community, located 30 km south of Tom Price. Kane

Embracing Aboriginal Wisdom on Native Plants

Our community was recently blessed with a valuable lesson in the intricate knowledge of native plants from the Aboriginal people

AAC Attends the 2024 Pilbara Summit

We are excited to share that our CEO, Operations Manager, and several Regional Managers from Tom Price and Karratha attended

‘Highly Commended’ Well Done Jacqui

I’m absolutely thrilled to share some incredible news about our dear colleague, Jacqui Craigs! Jacqui’s remarkable artistic talent has been

Resume Session Successes

Resume sessions play a crucial role in case management, but they can feel daunting for jobseekers with limited work experience.

Embracing Self-Care with Ashburton

The recent event hosted by AAC shed light on the importance of self-care, emphasising its significance in maintaining overall well-being.

The YETE Program: Try a Retailer

JS, a high achiever from the Kimberleys who completed Year 12 in 2023, found herself at a crossroads, unsure of

Empowering Success: JS’s Journey in Karratha

Since relocating to Karratha in January, Jobseeker JS, has displayed remarkable independence and a strong desire to learn. On his

Harmony Day with Ashburton

Earlier this year, AAC had the pleasure of partnering with Cassia Primary School to provide traditional meals for the students

Promoting Literacy: Library Bag Creation Event

In April, the Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation and the Yandeyarra Community School joined forces to host an engaging event to promote

Know Your Past to Create Your Future, the Steps of Change

Community involvement and Indigenous principles are paramount for success in navigating transitions or transformations, anchoring programs in holistic approaches. Understanding

Brandi’s Success Story

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Career Milestones with AAC’s Support Brandi, a dedicated jobseeker with AAC since August 2022, has truly

Our Culture Our Way

We are excited to announce the partnership between Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation and the ABC Foundation. The partnership aims to provide

NBAC YCREW Program Sparks Enthusiasm with 17 Jobseekers in Attendance

The NBAC YCREW program, a collaborative effort between Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation and BRIDA, kicked off with an induction session on

Empowering Communities Through Suicide Prevention: Hilda’s Journey

Meet Hilda, a job seeker from Carnarvon who recently returned to the Wakathuni Community. Despite facing personal challenges, Hilda expressed

Empowering Job Seekers: AAC’s ‘How To’ Day Workshops

AAC recently launched a groundbreaking program to empower job seekers through our weekly ‘How To’ Day Workshops at our Harwell

Employment Workshop: Critical Steps to Employment

As we know, “for far too long, people in remote communities have missed out on economic opportunities and have been

AAC’s Heartwarming Christmas Lunch for Hedland Elders

Following the theme of this year’s NAIDOC week “For Our Elders” AAC invited Elders from Hedland to a Christmas lunch

Breaking Barriers: Susan and Maria’s Success in AAC’s Real Jobs Program

Susan Lawrence, despite finding the opportunity intriguing, had spent thirty-five years as a stay-at-home mum, away from paid employment. She

Community Support Skill Set Training

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation (AAC) recently partnered with Insight Training to facilitate Community Support Skill Set training in the Nullagine/Irrungadji community.

Prepare to work safely in the construction industry: White Card Training

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation (AAC) collaboration with Aveling to provide us access to their online white card training. This course is

Strengthening Bonds Over Morning Tea

AAC Staff’s Engagement with Hope Services In a recent collaborative effort, AAC Staff participated in a morning tea hosted by

Highlights from the Pilbara Summit

AAC Regional Managers recently convened in Karratha for the highly anticipated Pilbara Summit. This year’s gathering, centered around the theme

Try-A-Trade Workshop at Onslow Tyres

On a quest to empower job seekers, our inaugural Try-A-Trade workshop unfolded at Onslow Tyres, providing participants with an immersive

Going the Extra Mile: Learn to Drive Program Empowers Remote Communities

In remote communities, gaining qualifications, obtaining identification documents, and securing a driver’s licence can be a challenging journey for young

Delivering the Learn to Drive Program in Remote Communities

In the vast and remote landscapes of Western Australia, the Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation is delivering the Learn to Drive Program,

AAC Onslow Joins the Celebration at this Year’s Passion of the Pilbara

Onslow came alive with the vibrant spirit of community and culture as AAC Onslow joined local residents and visitors in

AAC Karratha Celebrate with Hope Community Services

The Pilbara region has a reason to celebrate, as Hope Community Services marks its first year of operating the Pilbara

Introducing Sarah, Our Learn 2 Drive Instructor in Tom Price

We would like to share the inspiring story of Sarah, our dedicated driving instructor. Originally from the UK, Sarah started

Looking for a Brighter Future

AAC has been trialing Pathways to Real Jobs for jobseekers across the Pilbara. We’ve been working on a project in

Winners – WasteSorted Awards

AAC are thrilled to announce that our organization has been selected as the winner in the Closing the Loop category

2023 Jundunmunnah NAIDOC Art Exhibition

The Tom Price community this year held our second annual Jundunmunnah NAIDOC Art Exhibition. This event showcases the amazing art

Yule River Bush Meeting

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation was invited to attend the Annual Yule River Bush Meeting. Indigenous leaders from across Western Australia’s Northwest

Successful Department of Transport Open Day in Nullagine Community

The Department of Transport Open Day in Nullagine was a triumph! Seven jobseekers obtained their licenses during the event. Danny

Empowering Indigenous Youth

AAC Karratha’s Impactful Contribution at the 2023 KDCCI Indigenous Tradeshow In a powerful display of community support and commitment to

Empowering Job Seekers: Michael’s Journey to Employment Success

In the heart of Karratha, a newly opened site is paving the way for job seekers to find meaningful, full-time

Unveiling New Opportunities: Programmed’s Expansion in Karratha

Excitement buzzed through the air as Programmed’s North West Area Manager, Josh Stronach, graced the newly opened AAC Karratha Offices

Tim’s Journey: From Incarceration to Entrepreneurship

Tim, not his real name, wanted his identity concealed in this story, with the possibility of revealing it in the

Sports Uniting Communities

Harmony Week 2023 Success Recently, AAC staff members Kelly Gould and Michelle Kivits generously volunteered their time to support one

Port Hedland Networking Luncheon

The Hedland Management Team, consisting of Kristy Allison, Christie Haynes, Taylor Codina, Michelle Kivits, and Lisa Fleischer, recently had the

Tradie Hub Launch

Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce Launches South Hedland Tradie Hub, Empowering Local Tradespeople and Businesses AAC Hedland staff members Michelle

Port Hedland Chamber of Commerce and Industry

PHCCI State Budget Sundowner Briefing 2023/2024: Highlights and Key Government Initiatives AAC’s new Regional Manager for Hedland, Christie Haynes, joined

Milestone Success: Job Seekers Thrive at Smokemart

The Employment Services Team recently paid a visit to Smokemart located in South Hedland to honour and acknowledge the achievements

Driving Success

AAC’s Learn 2 Drive Program Empowers Jobseekers AAC is dedicated to supporting jobseekers in their journey towards gaining a licence,

Celebrating Milestones

Kellie, Genelle, and Biddy recently made a visit to Independent Parts in Wedgefield to commend their team members and celebrate

AAC’s Liz and Kirra are Kicking Goals!

In Hedland, as part of our internal KPIs, our Employment Pathway Advisors identify and select five job seekers from their

Training to Employment Program Success

Meet Christine Edmonds, one of our job seekers who is currently participating in the FMG VTEC training-to-employment program. Christine has

Ashburton Welcome New Staff Members

This month, we are pleased to welcome four new staff members to the Newman AAC family: Dijah, Jonah, Kerri-Anne, and

Driving Successes

Congratulations to Sammi Ryder, our latest recipient of a full manual driver’s licence. Your hard work and dedication have paid

Aboriginal Mental Health First Aid Workshop Tom Price

Tom Price Jobseekers attended an Aboriginal Mental Health Training Workshop offered by the National Wellbeing Alliance, along with some of

PICCI Business of the Year Awards

AAC Tom Price were recently recognised with two awards at the PICCI Business Awards 2022. The Pilbara Inland Chamber of

Aussie of the Month – Lucas Stone

Every now and then we are inspired by a Trailblazer. Nowadays they seem to get younger and younger. We’d like

Small Refund Point Award

On Friday 4 November, Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation was presented with another award: Small Refund Point Operator of the Year sponsored

Overcoming Fear of Driving – Success for Linda Dodd

Learning to drive is no easy feat. Linda Dodd celebrates overcoming her fear of driving and receives her provisional licence.

Huge Win for 14 Job Seekers Issused with Provisional Licences

Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation celebrates Learn2Drive and Access and Equity program of the WA Department of Transport. Fantastic results for Ashburton

Learners Permit Victory

Age is no barrier for Jenelle Dodd. AAC supports Jenelle to pass her Learner Permit assessment with flying colours. This

Proud Moment for Aaron Rule

AAC breaks down employment barriers. Aaron Rule achieved his proudest moment this month when he passed his Learner Theory test,

P-Plate Success

Practice practice practice is the key to a success driving assessment! Juanita (Winnie) learnt this first-hand leading up to her

A Helping Hand

Make Court Fines Disappear with support from AAC Work and Development Permit (WDP) Scheme. Court fines can find a way

40th Reason to Celebrate

Containers for Change delivers a work-ready component for participants who are long-term unemployed or have never employed. This paid training

Real Support!

Courtney has been employed with the Last Chance Bottle Shop since late April. Courtney works the drive-thru taking orders, collecting

Great Work Courtney and Billy

Don’t have a driver’s license, that doesn’t stop you from applying for jobs! AAC is here to assist our Jobseekers

Martu Youth Festival

On the last day of NAIDOC week, Nullagine held the Martu Youth Festival. The festival spanned 5 days and included

Local NAIDOC BBQ Event with IBN

AAC partnered with IBN to host a BBQ event with IBN, including live music, local fashion and children activities. We

Celebrating with Local Elders

Local Elder’s Maureen Kelly and Alfred Baker presented AAC Port Hedland Regional Manager a certificate of appreciation for excellent work

Local Elder’s Maureen Kelly and Alfred Barker

NAIDOC Morning Tea with Guest Speaker Michelle Kivits

AAC’s Regional Manager Michelle Kivits guest spoke at the Well Women’s Centre NAIDOC morning tea. Michelle gave a wrap-up of

NAIDOC Celebrations

NAIDOC Celebration with Department of Communities, Department of Justice and Blackwoods Port Hedland. On 5th of July AAC celebrated NAIDOC

YMCA NAIDOC Celebrations

AAC partnered with the YMCA to host a BBQ breakfast, arts and crafts and East Pilbara Band, Bradley Hall. During

NAIDOC Week Awards Ceremony

On Sunday 3rd of July AAC celebrated the 2022 NAIDOC Awards Ceremony. The ceremony was followed by a BBQ hosted

Congratulations Everyone!

Congratulations to Jason and Karen for Passing their Forklift Licence! Another good news story! Congratulations Jason and Karen for passing

Cartec Graduation

AAC partnered with Cartec Training to celebrate the graduation of six job seekers and one local participant. AAC partnered with

Congratulations Nora

Nora has won this year’s Port Hedland nomination for NAIDOC day celebrations in the Culture category. This category tells us

NAIDOC 2022: What to expect

2022 This year’s NAIDOC sees our community here in Tom Price celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and

Empowered

AAC Job Seekers and Community members felt empowered after they completed some Tour Guide Training. AAC collaborated with The Nintirri

Milestone Catch Ups

We were out and about over the last couple of weeks handing out some well-deserved cheques to some great organisations

Bravo, Brenton!

Brenton successfully completed his 50 hours of driving supervision, and with AAC’s assistance passed his practical driving assessment first time!

Good News Stories

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