Vision and Governance

Launched in 2021, the School’s mission is to encourage the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander theologies and ministries, and to decolonise the eurocentric versions of Christianity that remain dominant in this country.

This will be achieved through:

1. forming respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and Elders and with Indigenous councils and assemblies amongst the University’s partner churches
2. delivering Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander curriculum in partnership, where appropriate, with the University’s Colleges
3. encouraging and developing a University-wide research culture that embeds Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander methodologies, ontologies and epistemologies, along with Indigenous approaches to theology and ministry that seek to inform and challenge the wider church and community.
4. providing a culturally safe and supportive environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to promote access, retention and success in theology and ministry.
5. continuing to transform the cultures and activities of the University, its Colleges, and partners, to promote justice and equity and to address the impact of colonisation.
6. developing innovative and engaging learning experiences with the wider church and community that foster knowledge, respect and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and knowledge and of shared histories that are purposeful, and transforming.

This work is undertaken by the staff of the School with the valuable guidance of a School of Indigenous Studies Committee which meets at least four times per year. The committee’s chair, and the majority of its members, are recognised leaders in their Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Christian communities. The Committee must include at least one staff member of the School of Indigenous Studies, and one academic member of a College of the University. The Committee is appointed by the University Council and is accountable to the University Council through its chairperson.

School of Indigenous Studies Committee

More about the School of Indigenous Studies

Featured Links

• Vision and Governance

  Launched in 2022, the School’s mission is to encourage the development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander theologies and ministries, and to decolonise the eurocentric versions of Christianity that remain dominant in this country.

• Academic Offerings

  Study ‘Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Approaches to Theology’.

• Community Education

  The School of Indigenous Studies wants to be a resource to our member churches, as well as other interested groups, regarding Indigenous approaches to theology, church and mission.

• Resources

  Explore a repository for various papers and talks offered as part of School of Indigenous Studies courses or offerings as well as links to radio programs or podcasts in which School of Indigenous Studies people have participated.

• Ways to Contribute

  The work of the School of Indigenous Studies is dependent upon charitable giving via the University’s tax-deductible Indigenous Theology Fund.

• People and Contact

  Our team would love to hear from you. Get in touch!