Our aspirations
The aspirations and principles set in the Stretch RAP 2018-2021 remain largely unchanged and continue to guide our work today and will throughout the life of the plan. Together, we continuously aspire to:
- Embrace and embed Aboriginal Peoples’ identities, histories, cultures and two-way knowledge and learning approaches into our teaching pedagogy and curricula, and research;
- Graduate students who understand Australia’s two-way history and the impact of colonisation on Aboriginal Peoples, communities and cultures;
- Maintain institutional growth rates for Aboriginal Peoples that are at least 50 per cent above the growth rate of non-Aboriginal student enrolments, and ideally 100 per cent above;
- Grow retention and success rates for Aboriginal students equal to those of domestic non-Aboriginal students in the same fields of study by 2025;
- Achieve equal completion rates by field of study between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students by 2028; Achieve the highest Aboriginal graduate employment rates in both the state and nationally;
- Create educational outcomes that enhance and sustain Aboriginal identities, cultures, and strong Aboriginal communities and futures;
- Ensure Aboriginal research is ethical, culturally safe, and benefits and enhances the lives of Aboriginal Peoples and their communities; and
- Foster respectful, two-way relationships with Aboriginal Peoples, where Aboriginal voices are actively engaged in the business of the University.
Elders Testimonial
“To achieve in life, you have a greater chance if you are educated.”
“One of the most important things you can do in life is to learn to know yourself. Who you are culturally; where you come from; and what’s your passion and purpose.”
“Learn as much as you possibly can because it puts you in a position to compete with anyone. We need Aboriginal people in all professions.”
“Have a vision; stay focused; and be committed and courageous. You’ll gain confidence in your capabilities. Education is the key that will open doors for our people.”
“Education is the key; fill your dilly bag with the experience, knowledge and skills you need to navigate the system and come out the other end.””
“We can’t change the past, but we can change the future. Education is the key to success – to get our mob out in the general population.”
“Learning is a journey that provides opportunities to open up new career options but more importantly builds resilience and belief in your abilities as an Aboriginal person; allowing for your strength of character to shine through on your life journey.”
