Working in remote communities—a guide for job seekers

HELP FOR JOB SEEKERS

This guide is intended to help corporations registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006. It is not legal advice and ORIC disclaims any liability arising from its use. People using this document may seek further assistance from ORIC or obtain other professional advice.
 
© Commonwealth of Australia 2010
 
This work is copyright. Apart from any use as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 no part may be reproduced by any process without written permission from the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations. Requests and inquiries concerning reproduction and rights should be addressed to the Manager Communications and Policy, Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations, PO Box 2029, Woden ACT 2606.
 
Produced by ORIC November 2010 
 
First edition

ISBN 978-1-921542-42-8 

Working in remote communities—a guide for job seekers
If you are considering applying for a position in an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation but have not lived in remote areas of Australia before, the following information may be useful.

Benefits of working in remote communities
Working in a remote community is both challenging and rewarding. You will have the chance to acquire new skills, build new networks and gain new insights into remote community life. Remote community settings offer a network-rich work experience. 

Climate
Australia has very distinctive climate zones. 
The northern region has a wet season from November to February. Heavy rain can limit road access to and out of communities during this period. For the rest of the year, however, humidity levels drop, days are warm and nights are cool. 
The central and southern regions in Australia are semi-arid and typically experience four seasons. Tropical rains do not generally affect these areas, and nights can be cold during winter. Communities are often hot and dusty and the roads are usually of poor quality. 
Communication
Many remote areas in Australia are without mobile coverage. 
You may want to check if the corporation is able to supply you with a satellite phone, or you may want to purchase one yourself. Yet, as even satellite phone coverage can be erratic, it’s best not to rely on a phone as your only method of communication. It’s likely you will have access to internet and can use emails in your position, but it is always best to confirm this with the corporation before submitting your application or do so at your interview. 
Transport
You will need a 4WD to reach most remote communities as most are only serviced by unsealed roads. Further, during the wet season, these roads can be cut off by flood water. It will be to your advantage if you have 4WD experience.
Working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in their communities
When you begin working in a remote community, you will need to recognise that cultural practices underpin community activities. It is important to accept that English is not the only language spoken, and many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are likely to be used in everyday communication. Further, individual identity is often strongly aligned with family and clan identities, and is frequently linked to a specific homeland area. The long-term wellbeing of families and communities will often be a key focus of family groups and communities.
Accommodation options
Accommodation in remote communities is usually basic. It’s a good idea to clarify living arrangements with the corporation at your interview or even before you submit your application.