Preparing to Work in a Remote Community

Working in a remote community is exciting and provides an opportunity to learn and experience the distinct culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Some staff thrive in the new environment while others get lost in cross-cultural misunderstandings. What anthropologist Kalervo Oberg identifies as honeymoon phase, where everything appears fresh and inviting is often followed by a rejection phase. The novelty has worn off and the energy required to deal with all the new things begins to take its toll.

This workshop provides participants with an understanding of the psychological reactions they may experience when working in a remote community. This will equip them with the skills and knowledge to manage their normal reactions as they adjust to the new role.

In this session we will explore:

• Cultural awareness of Indigenous Australia in the Northern Territory (cultural concepts, cultural protocols, language and gender)
• Tools on how to manage the various phases of settling into a remote community work environment
• Self-care strategies for maintaining well-being
• Real case scenarios from people working on remote communities
• When and how to seek professional assistance