Research
Ensuring that research is not only led by our voices but also grounded in cultural protocols and community engagement.
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Wollotuka Institute
Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed
We are committed to the advancement and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
A leader in Indigenous education and research
In the language of the Awabakal people "Wollotuka" means "eating and meeting place".
We are committed to the advancement and leadership of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at a local, national and global level. At Wollotuka you can connect with other students and community – a home away from home while studying.
Study with us
There are many ways for you to gain entry to University. You don’t need to have completed your HSC or have an ATAR. We have a number of pathways which take your life experience and your goals for University study into account.
Indigenous Nationals 30th Anniversary
This year, Indigenous Nationals will be returning home to The Wollotuka Institute to celebrate 30 years. The games originally began as a student-led initiative three decades ago and has grown to what it is today.
Celebrating 40 years of the Wollotuka Institute 7:34
We have supported thousands of Indigenous graduates whilst championing an academically enriching and culturally affirming education, and forging a reputation as a leader in Indigenous education in Australia.
Empowering Indigenous futures for four decades
Born from passion and persistence in the 1980s, we began as a small support unit for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student. From these humble beginnings, we grew into a leading centre for Indigenous education and research. Over four decades, we have expanded our reach through programs, earning international recognition for our work.
Supporting strategies
Our standards and accreditation
News • 15 Oct 2026
Where Culture meets STEM: Empowering future leaders in Wadeye
The University of Newcastle’s National Science and Engineering Challenge, SMART program and the Wollotuka Institute travelled to Wadeye to deliver a series of hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematic (STEM) activities that connect learning with culture.
News • 12 Oct 2026
Showing our support for the Koori Knockout
The University of Newcastle and the Wollotuka Institute were proud to be named community partners of the 2026 Koori Knockout, one of the largest annual gatherings celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, community and rugby league.
News • 22 Sep 2026
Aboriginal history honoured in naming of university student accommodation
The University of Newcastle has announced the name of its new student accommodation in the heart of Newcastle – Muloobinba House – honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture.
News • 26 Aug 2026
Nathan Towney appointed as Deputy Vice-Chancellor Engagement and Equity
The University of Newcastle has today announced the appointment of Nathan Towney as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Engagement and Equity.
News • 18 Aug 2026
CSIRO backs next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander STEM talent with $1.5 million scholarship program
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), and other energy transition-related degrees at the University of Newcastle will benefit from a major new scholarship initiative funded by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO.
News • 16 Jul 2026
Grassroots communities share storytelling to preserve environmental gems
A beautiful cross-cultural storytelling project facilitated by the University of Newcastle is amplifying the voices of climate-facing communities and deepening understanding of the environmental and cultural significance of wetlands and waterways across the Pacific.
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.
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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.