Ms Briggs’ passion for a career in health has led her to one of the fastest growing job fields in south-west Victoria.

She is completing a traineeship in allied health assistance based at South West Healthcare, delivered through South West TAFE.

“It’s a bit of a career change for me as I previously worked in education, but it’s been great so far with a lot of challenges and interesting aspects to it,” the 21-year-old said.

“I love working in the health field. My motivation is the healthcare of other people.”

She started the traineeship last July and is enjoying the challenge, after completing year 12 in Warrnambool in 2013.

Her road to success hasn’t always been easy.

She almost quit school after year 10 but is now reaping the benefits of persistence. 

She completed year 11 and 12 at Warrnambool College prior to attending three other high schools around Victoria.

“Warrnambool College was my fourth high school. We moved around quite a lot,” she said.

“I really didn’t want to go back to school once moving back home to Warrnambool. But in life we all have choices and I’m thankful I made the right one at the time, I honestly don’t know where I would be today if I hadn’t have continued with my schooling and education.”

Ms Briggs previously worked at her former high school as a mentor for Indigenous students and she hopes more Indigenous young people follow their aspirations in life and aim high.

“I saw the position advertised for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person and thought it would be ideal with my passion for health,” she said.

South West TAFE health co-ordinator Christine Grace said the certificate IV in allied health assistance was meeting growing demand for workers in the field.

The qualification allows graduates to work as assistants to allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, podiatrist, speech pathologists and dietitians.

“Industry is telling us it’s a growing area and they are looking to employ more allied health assistants,” Ms Grace said.