A leader in Indigenous education
In the language of the Awabakal people "Wollotuka" means "eating and meeting place".
The Wollotuka Institute is committed to the advancement and leadership of Indigenous education at a local, national and global level.
As a student, you will be supported by experienced staff with all your academic, cultural and emotional well-being needs to ensure your success during your time at the University of Newcastle.
Above all, we provide an inclusive, culturally safe environment where you can come for support, advice, collaboration and knowledge-sharing. The space is one where you can connect with other students and community – a home away from home while studying at the University of Newcastle.
Welcome to the Wollotuka Institute
Study with us
Explore our wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees, and enjoy the exciting career opportunities ahead.
Alternative Entry
Yapug is a pathway program designed to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to gain skills into university.
Our standards and accreditation
Cultural Standards
The Wollotuka Institute is guided by the teachings of our Nguraki (Elders/cultural mentors) whose wisdom are respected and honoured. Our Nguraki and community played a pivotal role in shaping and developing a locally defined set of Cultural Standards which reflect and embrace the cultural essence.
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WINHEC Accreditation
The World Indigenous Nations Higher Education Consortium (WINHEC) was established in August 2002 at the World Indigenous Peoples Conference on Education (WIPCE) in Alberta, Canada. WINHEC’s aim is to bring professionals together to achieve common goals through higher education.
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Our functions
The functions of the Wollotuka Institute incorporate
Study and academia
Our experienced staff, Elders and cultural leaders are here to guide you on scholarships, tutorial assistance, employment opportunities and support during your student journey.
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Research and innovation
Umilliko Indigenous Higher Education Research Centre is the research arm of the Wollotuka Institute with its research philosophy being grounded in a framework of Indigenous-centred ideals.
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Student advancement
Our student advancement team can provide you with proactive support throughout your studies. We can provide guidance on programs, courses, scholarships and uni support services.
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Community engagement
The Wollotuka Institute values its links with with our local, national and international communities. Our team engages with schools and communities within our region to inspire our people to see that attending university is achievable.
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Indigenous employment and development
Our Maligagu Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employment Strategy and Action Plan 2020-2025 focuses on attracting quality applications for academic and professional positions at all levels across the University.
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The Wollotuka Institute acknowledges the traditional Aboriginal owners of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal Nation, Darkinung Nation, Biripai Nation, Worimi Nation, Wonnarua Nation and Eora Nation. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past, present and emerging.
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.