Industry Collaborations

ADG’s Indigenous Training Academy is one of many successful programs ISTA has delivered across urban and remote areas of the Northern Territory. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful training and employment opportunities for Indigenous Territorians.

ADG sought a flexible and supportive RTO to help achieve its goals, and ISTA was identified as the ideal partner. Together, they focus on empowering participants, building confidence, and developing essential life and workplace skills across a range of industries.

Training is delivered onsite at Darwin Airport Resort, providing a familiar and accessible environment that removes the pressure of a traditional classroom. Using real facilities such as the dining room and coffee machines allows trainees to learn in a practical, hands-on setting; often the same environment where they will apply their skills. The collaboration between ADG, ISTA and ACCOR has been key to the program’s success. By working closely together, they maintain strong communication, monitor progress, and provide tailored support to each trainee, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both participants and the wider community.

Nyirrunggulung-RISE has partnered with the Institute of Skills and Training Australia (ISTA) to deliver a transformative hospitality training initiative for Aboriginal jobseekers in remote communities. The Kukimbat Gudwan Daga (Cooking Good Food) program provides culturally appropriate, hands-on training that leads directly to employment opportunities.

Developed to promote safe food practices and create local job pathways, the program supports participants from Barunga, Wugularr (formerly Beswick) and Binjari. Many remote communities face barriers to accessing formal training and work experience, and this partnership is focused on breaking down those barriers to education and employment.

The program launched as a pilot in 2023 with female participants from Beswick and Barunga. Following its success, participation has grown steadily through 2024 and 2025. It addresses the need for certified hospitality skills, which are essential for employment in local services, events and catering.

Participants gain practical, industry-recognised skills including barista training, safe food handling, RSA, food hygiene and basic business knowledge. Beyond qualifications, the program builds confidence and empowers individuals. With hospitality shortages continuing across the Northern Territory, this initiative is creating real pathways for Indigenous Territorians to build meaningful careers.
 

ISTA has proudly partnered with the City of Darwin over the past few years to deliver the Get That Job! Level Up – Café Skills program. This free workshop is a great opportunity for young people aged 15–25 to build practical hospitality skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Held in a real city café after hours (no customers, no pressure), participants learn the basics of café operations and get hands-on experience creating classic café treats. It’s designed to be engaging, relaxed, and confidence-building—perfect for anyone curious about working in hospitality or wanting to boost their job readiness.

Open to both domestic and international students in Darwin, this popular workshop books out quickly each round. It’s a fantastic way to gain new skills, meet new people, and take a step closer to employment.
 

ISTA delivered a targeted training program in April 2026 in partnership with MTC International Bali, supporting 30 students preparing for employment abroad. The program focused on work-ready skills, professional communication, and cross-cultural awareness aligned with international workplace standards.

Participants engaged in practical scenarios to build confidence in real-world interactions, with an emphasis on adaptability, professionalism, and effective communication in multicultural environments.
 

ISTA delivered training in January 2026 to 25 students at Politeknik Negeri Bali, focusing on time management and professional document writing. The program strengthened students’ ability to manage tasks, meet deadlines, and produce clear, professional workplace documents.

This training supported students in transitioning from academic study to employment by building essential organisational and administrative skills.
 

ISTA delivered training in 2025 and 2026 in Timor-Leste under The Pacific Labour Mobility Support Program, funded by Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The program included Hospitality and Coffee training, Digital Literacy, Work Ready Skills, and English language. Training focused on practical, job-ready competencies to support participants entering international employment pathways, with strong emphasis on communication, workplace standards, and industry-relevant skills.
 

Uur team delivered training in Alice Springs as part of the Indigenous Skills and Employment Program (ISEP). The Pre-Employment Program was proudly hosted at Northern Territory Indigenous Business Network.

This five-day course is designed for young people aged 15–24 who are looking to take their first step into the workforce. The program featured a mix of hands-on learning, real-world skills development, and engaging activities, including:
☑️ Workplace safety, communication, and goal setting.
☑️ Work readiness, covering resumé writing, digital literacy, and professional expectations.
☑️ Networking and interview preparation, including mock interviews with local employers.
☑️ Financial literacy, budgeting, and understanding payslips and superannuation.
☑️ Informative sessions to set participants up for a successful start to their careers.