Flinders University is proud to announce the graduation of a new cohort of health professionals, trained in the Northern Territory and ready to strengthen the local healthcare workforce.
On 15 December, 35 Flinders University’s students from the Northern Territory, including 22 new doctors, graduated in Darwin.
This milestone pushes the Flinders’ Northern Territory Medical Program (NTMP) cumulative total to 251 medical graduates since its inception in 2011, with 10% identifying as Indigenous – a significant achievement in improving representation in medicine.
The 2025 graduating class also includes eight Paramedicine graduates, including one Indigenous student, and five graduates from various other degrees.
Flinders University’s NTMP continues to deliver on its mission to train doctors locally, with 88% of medical graduates being Territorians and over half choosing to practise in the NT. This commitment is vital for addressing healthcare needs across rural and remote communities.
Among this year’s graduates is Jason Wilmot, a proud Territorian from Alice Springs, whose inspiring journey from personal trainer to future surgeon highlights the transformative power of local training opportunities.
“I’ve always been passionate about health and fitness, but medicine felt like the next step to make a real difference,” says Jason.
“Training in the NT has given me hands-on experience in rural and remote settings, and I’m committed to serving communities that need care the most.”
Also lending her voice to the celebration is Rochelle Cabry, named 2024 Medical Student of the Year for her leadership and advocacy in rural health.
Rochelle grew up in Katherine and spent a significant part of her medical studies on placements in East Arnhem Land. Her dedication to improving healthcare access for remote communities has made her a standout ambassador for the NTMP.
“Studying medicine in the Territory has been an incredible experience,” says Rochelle.
“It’s not just about learning clinical skills – it’s about understanding the unique challenges faced by our communities and working together to overcome them.”
Flinders University’s programs in the NT are designed to address critical workforce shortages by training students in the environments where they are most needed.
With strong partnerships across the NT, graduates gain practical experience in hospitals, clinics, and remote health services, preparing them for careers that make a tangible impact.
“Our graduates are not only highly skilled, but they’re also deeply connected to the Territory,” says Flinders University Chancellor John Hood, who presented the awards at the ceremony.
“By training locally, we’re ensuring that the NT is delivered by professionals who understand and value the communities they serve.”