Indigenous-led mentoring
Indigenous-led mentoring
Indigenous-led mentoring
Mentorship
PPS’s vision to build strong careers and stronger communities underpins our commitment to Indigenous-led mentoring for the next generation of Indigenous tradespeople.
Mentorship links real site experience with steady guidance in a culturally safe environment, building skills, income, confidence and long-term mobility.
We put this vision into action through the Willan Guiding Spirits Program, a structured pathway that provides accredited learning, cultural mentoring, life skills support, and a clear path into traineeships and apprenticeships.
Retention and progression
Regular check ins, clear goals and support to finish training. People stay in the trade and step up as their skills grow.
Safe, confident workers
On site coaching builds safe habits and quality standards from day one. Fewer mistakes, faster learning, earlier responsibility.
Cultural safety
Respect and cultural mentoring create trust and stability. People are more likely to thrive and stay long term.
Career mobility
Licences, complex project exposure and industry connections. Graduates move into bigger roles across the CDPG network.
Indigenous-led mentoring at Pathway Plumbing Service
Indigenous-led mentoring program for First Nations trades
Indigenous-led mentoring in plumbing apprenticeships
Why Willan matters
In the Dhauwurd Wurrung language of the Gunditjmara, Willan (Kappatj) is the Black-tailed Cockatoo, a guiding spirit. PPS carries this motif as a promise of guidance, care and steady progress.
Willan shapes our mentoring. It is Indigenous-led mentoring grounded in cultural safety, clear direction and visible next steps, so people can move forward with confidence and purposeful support.
The Willan Guiding Spirits Program
Developed with the Killara Foundation and Yellow-Tail Services, this program gives First Nations Australians a culturally safe pathway into the plumbing trade with Indigenous-led mentoring at every stage.
It’s grounded in Ricky Willan’s view: many of our elders were blocked from skilled trades. That loss of practical skills held back families and communities for generations. The program answers that by passing on pragmatic trade skills and strong work habits, so people can support their communities now and set the next generation up to go further.
The pathway moves from paid pre-employment into a traineeship or apprenticeship, backed by cultural mentoring, accredited training and practical life support. See the kinds of commercial projects where trainees build experience.
Go to the Killara Foundation
Paid pre-employment
Ten weeks paid, one day per week, building site readiness.
Certificate II qualification
Work towards a recognised Certificate II during pre-employment.
Clear career pathways
Move into a traineeship or apprenticeship with committed employers.
Holistic mentorship
Aboriginal mentors and culturally aware supervisors, on and off site.
Supported accommodation
Access to Killara Life Skills and Residency where needed.
Long term support
Check ins and guidance for 6 to 12 months after placement.
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Ten weeks paid, one day per week, building site readiness.
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Work towards a recognised Certificate II during pre-employment.
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Move into a traineeship or apprenticeship with committed employers.
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Aboriginal mentors and culturally aware supervisors, on and off site.
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Access to Killara Life Skills and Residency where needed.
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Check ins and guidance for 6 to 12 months after placement.
Skills safety guidance opportunity pride.
Beyond the Program
Our support continues beyond the program. PPS stays connected with apprentices and trainees, helping them apply their skills on site, navigate challenges, and make the right industry connections. This extra backing means they're more confident in their work, more likely to stay in the trade, and better positioned for long-term career growth.
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We help apprentices obtain their driver’s licence, covering specific costs and providing guidance through the process, essential for site access and career mobility.
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Opportunities to participate in Welcome to Country, smoking ceremonies and cultural events that connect work with identity and tradition.
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Links to Aboriginal advisory committees and local Elders to support respectful practices and address site-specific Indigenous matters.
Mentorship
Talk to us about mentoring pathways
We support apprentices, trainees and employers through every stage of the trade pathway. Reach out if you’re looking for guidance, placements or partnership opportunities.
- Traineeships and apprenticeships (new starts and transfers)
- Work placements and supervised hours
- Cultural mentoring and wellbeing support
- Tickets, licences and pre-employment readiness
- School-based programs and work experience
- Employer partnerships and host placements
- Funding and incentive guidance