Natalie attended the Royal Military College, Duntroon as a Staff Cadet from 2017-2019. Choosing to serve as she wanted to contribute to the national interest and having seen the impact that so many had made before her. Unfortunately, due to an injury, Natalie spent over a year in rehabilitation. She struggled with mental health issues during this time and decided to follow another career path.
Natalie decision to transition from the ADF was difficult due to ongoing personal pressures and anxiety, exacerbated by employment and career uncertainty. After she was put in contact with Soldier On via the Pathways program and was subsequently offered an internship with the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources. On completion of the internship, Natalie continued to work with the Soldier On Pathways Team and Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.
Natalie wishes to use the opportunity of being an ambassador to provide support to people who may be struggling with similar personal circumstances. She also aims to raise the awareness of the success of the Internship Program at the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources in the hopes that it can be replicated more broadly across the APS and in state and territory governments.