Indigenous engagement

Building respectful relationships and opportunities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ contributions to science.

Our vision is to foster a strong sense of belonging and inclusivity by working respectfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff and communities across teaching, learning, research and scientific collaboration. This commitment recognises the essential role of Indigenous knowledges, perspectives and leadership in shaping a more inclusive, relevant and impactful scientific community.

Throughout the Faculty, we work in partnership with community organisations, Indigenous leaders, academics, government and industry to advance research that delivers meaningful scientific, societal and cultural outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These collaborations have led to innovative and leading research that is informed by Indigenous knowledge, expertise and priorities.

We are committed to enabling Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to flourish through targeted pathways and scholarships, and through the meaningful embedding of Indigenous knowledges and perspectives across programs and curricula, supporting student success and cultural capability.

Aligning with UQ’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), this work acknowledges the ancient and continuing relationship between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and Country, which provides vital knowledge for conserving biodiversity and achieving social, cultural and economic benefits. As contemporary science increasingly engages with Indigenous ecological and scientific knowledge, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives play a vital role in making science more relevant, trustworthy and effective in teaching, research and innovation.