North East Arnhem Land

On Yolngu Country in North East Arnhem Land, our relationship is centred on two-way knowledge sharing and governance. Working alongside Yolngu Elders and organisations, we co-create projects that respect Indigenous knowledge and foster immersive, on-Country learning experiences for students and staff.

Academic-led research and education programs have been formed over decades, with the University’s presence in North East Arnhem Land dating back to the 1930s. The University continues to deepen its relationship with Yolngu people through research and education partnerships across education, health, science, language, and ranger programs.

Bilingual teaching and education

The Yambirrpa schools (Yirrkala and Laynhapuy Homelands) have been committed to developing learning alongside local Indigenous knowledge systems for decades, commonly referred to as Both Ways learning and teaching.

The Faculty of Education's partnership with the Yambirrpa schools provides the opportunity for pre-service teachers to complete part of their final practicum placement in Northeast Arnhem Land and Yuendumu.

Donald Thomson Collection

The Donald Thomson Collection represents a unique cultural resource of national and international distinction. Its greatest significance resides in its importance to communities of origin and their descendant families. The Collection will be held in the Place for Indigenous Art and Culture, to be built on the Parkville campus where it will be appropriately cared for and to enable community access.