Our reconciliation priorities
As a university, education is at the heart of what we do, and reconciliation provides us both a responsibility and privilege. We acknowledge the role educational institutions have played in the exclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and knowledges in this country and our responsibility in addressing educational and other social inequalities that exist as a result.
Embed cultural capability framework across the University
The University of Newcastle has developed a Cultural Capability Framework 2020 – 2025 with the aim of increasing the sense of cultural safety and belonging among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and staff and building the cultural capability of students and staff to understand Indigenous cultures, history and contemporary issues.
The framework creates a structure for all staff to reflect on their practices and provides a roadmap to identify areas of action necessary to enable the best possible outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and the wider community. The Framework provides a tiered learning experience from online modules, face to face workshops and ‘On Country’ learning with our local communities and is scaffolded with participants moving from Cultural Awareness to Cultural Responsiveness. Our goal is for 100% of staff across the University to have completed at least one form of training by 2025.
Leader in reconciliation
The University of Newcastle will lead reconciliation action in our regions and on a national and global scale. We will use our sphere of influence to champion reconciliation priorities and to engage and inspire our partners and stakeholders in driving reconciliation outcomes.
Indigenisation of curriculum/development of student graduate attribute
All students who graduate from our university, regardless of what degree or program they are studying will have increased knowledge about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, peoples and cultures through the development of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Graduate Attribute.
The development of the Graduate Attribute will mean that all courses and curriculums will include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander content and perspectives. The University will enhance the University’s curriculum by further embedding perspectives and pedagogies that demonstrate respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, and cultures.
Economic independence and innovation
The University of Newcastle is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander economic empowerment. Through our new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Procurement Strategy the University will increase our annual procurement spend from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses and provide engagement and support for First Nations Businesses and entrepreneurs within the University footprint.
This Reconciliation Action Plan brings to life the University’s commitment to engagement and community collaboration for Reconciliation.
Artwork story: The creation of this work was inspired by a group discussion with the University of Newcastle’s RAP working group and the thoughts they had about what reconciliation means to them and the University.
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.