Helen Nguyen

Helen Nguyen, Project Officer and former Department Chief Minister and Cabinet (CMC) graduate has called the Territory her home for the past 3.5 years. Originally from Vietnam Helen moved to Australia in 2017 and stayed in Melbourne, VIC for three years before taking a leap of faith on the Territory.

“I arrived in the Northern Territory during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and found the process of organising my belongings and arranging my stay in Darwin, as well as the quarantine area, to be challenging but I was impressed by how controlled the situation in the Territory was.”

“In Melbourne we were very restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but in the Territory, everyone could continue with their daily activities without interruption. Effective measures to ensure the safe isolation of individuals travelling from interstate or overseas were in place but Darwin city was still alive and abuzz with people. I received exceptional services from the isolated area of Howard Springs, which offered me a peaceful retreat and allowed me to make many beautiful memories.”

When asked about her favourite aspects of living in the Top End region, Helen highlights the friendliness of the people and the multicultural community events, which make her feel at home. She also notes the availability of job opportunities for early-career women adds to the region's appeal.

“Upon my arrival in Darwin in 2020, I quickly developed a deep affection for this thriving city and considered it my second home.”

“Working for the Northern Territory Government (NTG) has allowed me to take part in projects and initiatives that address the needs and challenges of society, making a direct impact on the community.”

Moving to the Territory as an international student Helen came to peruse her Master of Professional Accounting at Charles Darwin University. After completion of her two-year course, she then applied for the Department Chief Minister and Cabinet (CM&C) graduate program. In 2024 Helen completed the yearlong program with flying colours and now has officially won her role working for the Northern Territory Government

“As a student I aspired to work for the NTG because I want to make a positive impact on society. I am eager to contribute my knowledge and efforts to the well-being of the community I hold dear.”

“Now working for CM&C I have been awarded with unique benefits. I observed that the organisation places significant emphasis on promoting a healthy work-life balance and facilitating a flexible working environment for its employees. The Northern Territory Public Sector (NTPS) also provides its staff with diverse career opportunities, allowing them to explore various career paths within other agencies without switching their employer.”

“I have witnessed firsthand that my employer always invests in the professional development of its employees through comprehensive training programs, workshops, and educational opportunities, which enable them to acquire new skills and advance in their careers.”

“Furthermore, NTPS encourages a healthy workplace - I found that my colleagues at NTPS are highly supportive and encourage open dialogue through the exchange of knowledge, interesting discussions, and the sharing of stories. This collaborative approach fosters a positive work culture that encourages staff to seek answers and feedback through inquiry and explore innovative solutions to challenges.”

For those considering a career with the Northern Territory Government, Helen offers valuable advice: "If you want to contribute to the greater good and make a positive impact on the Northern Territory, the public sector is the right place to motivate your enthusiasm and help you find the meaning of your work."

“The positive influence of every individual I have encountered, the serene lifestyle, and the synchronization with the pace of Darwin have convinced me to make it my permanent home. The amiable locals and the support of the community have created an ideal atmosphere to establish my career and start a family.”