Indigenous Skills to Employment (ISEP) Program

Supporting employers to build skilled, job-ready Indigenous workforces, and empowering Indigenous Australians with nationally recognised skills

The Indigenous Skills to Employment Program (ISEP) is an Australian Government initiative funded through the National Indigenous Australians Agency and On Common Country. It’s designed to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians gain practical skills, complete nationally recognised qualifications, and secure meaningful employment.

The program supports organisations to upskill, train and employ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through industry-aligned, nationally recognised training. ISEP helps businesses strengthen their workforce capability by providing culturally appropriate training pathways, practical skill development, and employment-focused support for Indigenous employees and job seekers.

What is ISEP?

ISEP provides funding for eligible Indigenous participants to access vocational education and training programs and can assist with course fees if the training and qualifications are linked to employment. For employers, this means access to subsidised training options that help build a skilled, safe and job-ready team.

Through ISEP,  employers can support their Indigenous workforce to:

  • Gain nationally recognised qualifications

  • Develop practical, industry-specific skills

  • Strengthen workplace performance and productivity

  • Receive mentoring and culturally safe support

  • Open pathways to apprenticeships, traineeships, or further study

Civil Safety partners with employers and industry to deliver training that is flexible, culturally appropriate, and aligned with local labour market needs.

How ISEP Works

The ISEP program can combine training, mentoring, and employment support to create a pathway to work or support those already working to further their skills and qualifications. It supports individuals and employers through:

Training and Qualifications

  • Fully or partially funded accredited and non-accredited courses.

  • Qualifications at Certificate II, III or IV level, tailored to industry needs.

  • Training delivered on-site, at Civil Safety facilities, online or blended.

  • Workforce development solutions that link directly to job roles and career pathways.

Mentoring and Support

  • Participants may receive guidance and support throughout the program from a dedicated ISEP coordinator.

  • Mentoring can help participants develop workplace skills, confidence, and employability.

  • Culturally appropriate support can ensure participants feel supported and connected during their training (enhancing engagement and completion rates)

  • Guidance to help new employees transition into the workforce successfully.

Courses available under ISEP

ISEP funding may cover a range of nationally recognised qualifications or accredited courses designed to prepare and transition participants for employment in many sectors such as:

  • Construction and civil works

  • Mining and resources

  • Transport and logistics

  • Agriculture and rural operations

  • Safety, compliance, and workplace training

Civil Safety ensures that all training aligns with industry standards and provides a pathway to real jobs or further study. For employers, it helps lead to genuine employment outcomes for your organisation.

Courses available under ISEP

To access ISEP funding, participants must:

  • Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander

  • Be 15 years or older (school-leavers and adults may apply)

  • Be an Australian citizen or Australian citizen by descent

  • Be ready and committed to completing the program and associated training and gain employment

Additional eligibility criteria may apply depending on the course and funding availability. Participants will be required to complete an application form and be assessed for eligibility. Employers can work with Civil Safety to identify eligible staff or candidates for the program.

ISEP Funding Explained

ISEP is fully funded by the Australian Government, which means eligible participants and businesses can:

  • Access training at a reduced or minimal cost

  • Receive support for mentoring, learning resources, and workplace preparation

  • Be guided into pathways for employment or further qualifications

Civil Safety also provides a structured, supportive learning environment to maximise student success.

ISEP funds are not to be used to fund activities or services already available through other providers.

Pathways After ISEP

Participants completing an ISEP-funded program may progress into:

  • Apprenticeships or traineeships

  • Employment or career progression in their chosen sector

  • Further VET qualifications (Certificate III/IV)

  • University or Vocational study

Participants may also gain valuable industry contacts and workplace experience, giving them a strong advantage in the job market, and helping employers by increasing employees long-term contribution and value to your business.

Partner With Civil Safety for ISEP

Civil Safety works collaboratively with individuals, employers, industry, and communities to:

  • Deliver tailored, industry-relevant training

  • Provide mentoring and culturally appropriate support throughout the program

  • Ensure culturally safe and inclusive learning

  • Help participants transition into employment, career progression, or further study

  • Help organisations build skilled, confident and job-ready Indigenous workforces.

Ready to Start your ISEP Journey?

Take the first step towards employment and nationally recognised skills with Civil Safety today.

We encourage businesses to partner with Civil Safety to develop Indigenous talent and build a safer, more capable workforce.

Please contact us at isep@civilsafety.edu.au or via phone at 07 2803 4477