Audiology Australia has published a new page on its website during National NAIDOC Week 2026 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people considering audiology careers.
NAIDOC Week is from 5 to 12 July 2026.
Audiology Australia (AudA) said the webpage explains why many people choose a career in audiology, shares audiology degree options across Australia, the process of becoming an Audiology Australia Accredited Audiologist®, and outlines the support people can expect when they join AudA.
Also included is mention of the First Nations Audiologists and Students Network. This is a network that Audiology Australia recently helped to facilitate the creation of. The group is run by First Nations audiologists, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiologists and students.
There are regular drop-in sessions providing opportunities to connect, ask questions, debrief, or have a yarn. Those interested in talking with the network are invited to contact Audiology Australia so the organisation can put them in touch with relevant people.
“This is the first online resource that we are aware of that both encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to pursue a career in audiology, and that lists all degree, pathway and support options with information specifically targeted towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” said Audiology Australia CEO Leanne Emerson.
“We hope the work we are doing in this space in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders and our peers in hearing care goes some way towards increasing representation in the audiology profession and the wider sector.”
Other initiatives
Audiology Australia also encouraged all members to take part in a local NAIDOC Week event in their area – listed on the NAIDOC website.
Audiology Australia launched its statement of commitment to eliminating racism towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during Reconciliation Week. It will form the foundations of initiatives to come.
The statement was developed after AudA’s involvement in the Indigenous-led, STORM (Systematically, Together, Overcoming Racism Model) project. It reflects Audiology Australia’s ongoing commitment to fostering a profession where everyone feels respected, valued and included.
Audiology Australia has completed 20% of activities for its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan. The final 80% of activities are all in progress.
The Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is committed to building respectful, collaborative relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, promoting cultural awareness, and supporting initiatives that advance equity in hearing health.
Read the dedicated Pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to become audiologists webpage.
