About the program
The Melbourne Indigenous Professional Employment Program (MIPEP) is an employment initiative designed to meet the needs of the Indigenous Australian community by supporting skill development and providing broad work experience. MIPEP also supplies the workforce with capable, qualified staff and makes a meaningful contribution to the University’s Indigenous staff priorities and targets.
The program offers employment opportunities that promote self-empowerment and contribute to positive Indigenous outcomes. It recognises that Indigenous employees bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and skills that enrich and enhance the University’s work.
Originally launched in 2013 as the Indigenous Australian Employment Development Program (IAEDP), the program has primarily focused on trainees. From 2026, MIPEP expands into two distinct streams:
- MI-Trainee: A 2-year Indigenous-led professional services vocational education traineeship for early entry to mid-career Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff.
- MI-Graduate: A 1-year culturally safe and professionally enriching graduate program for high-achieving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates.
Program overview
MIPEP provides culturally safe, professionally enriching, and structured career development opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. MIPEP supports participants across early career stages by offering meaningful workplace experience, cultural enrichment, mentorship and access to professional networks. By embedding Indigenous perspectives, knowledge, and leadership into the University workforce, MIPEP strengthens individual career pathways while contributing to broader institutional goals of equity, inclusion, and the advancement of Indigenous staff across all levels. Both program streams, MI-Trainee and MI-Graduate, share a commitment to supporting participants’ personal and professional growth, fostering community, and building sustainable Indigenous leadership within the University.
The MI-Trainee program is a 2-year Indigenous-led Professional Services Vocational Education traineeship for early-entry to mid-career Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander staff. Participants attain an accredited Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification while receiving culturally safe workplace training, alongside personal and professional development and wrap-around support.
Key MI-Trainee program features:
- Employment: 2-year, fixed-term contract in a range of business administration positions at the University, classified UoM 4.1 ($80,400 p.a) to UoM 5.1 ($86,943 p.a).
- Program highlights:
- Accredited VET qualification while gaining real-world professional experience
- Culturally safe workplace training, mentorship, and wrap-around support
- Career development aligned with individual strengths and aspirations.
- Who should apply:
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander candidates.
- Year 12 or VET Certificate III attainment or equivalent relevant experience
- Motivated to develop professional skills and contribute to the University community.
- Launch your career in a supportive, culturally enriching environment that values Indigenous leadership and professional growth.
The MI-Graduate program is a 1-year, culturally safe and professionally enriching graduate program that provides clear pathways into professional careers within the University. MI-Graduate embodies the University’s commitment to Indigenous self-determination, workforce equity and community impact, aligning with the Indigenous Employment Plan.
Key MI-Graduate program features:
- Employment: 12 months (UoM Level 6 – $98,870 to $107,023 p.a. + 17% superannuation).
- Program highlights:
- Ongoing employment on successful completion
- Tailored leadership training, Indigenous mentorship, and cultural education
- Cohort engagement and professional development aligned with career aspirations.
- Who should apply:
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander graduates (undergraduate or postgraduate) in the last 12 months
- Strong academic record and leadership potential
- Committed to culture, community engagement, and professional growth
- Available for full program participation.
Participant benefits
- Up to 10 days paid cultural and ceremonial leave
- Relocation assistance for regional or remote graduates
- MIPEP start-up package (merchandise, Myki, vouchers, etc.)
- Access to University staff benefits and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services
- Regular connection with the MIPEP cohort
- Meaningful work assignments aligned with the participant’s skills, academic background, and career aspirations