Acknowledgement of country

We acknowledge Aboriginal People and Torres Strait Islander People as the first inhabitants of the nation, and acknowledge Traditional Custodians of the Australian lands where our staff and students live, learn and work. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that this site may contain names, images or voices of people who have passed away.

Bringing strategy to life

Indigenous Support in Accommodation

JCU's Reconciliation Action Plan

Our vision is to build strong relationships, increase respect and improve opportunities for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Mabo Decision: 30 years on

The Land I Own

© Gail Mabo (2008) [artwork detail], JCU Art Collection

Empowering students

Discover IERC

Appointment of Professor Martin Nakata as DVC Indigenous Education and Strategy

Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Education and Strategy Professor Martin Nakata

One of Australia’s top Indigenous scholars, James Cook University’s Professor Martin Nakata, has been appointed to the role of Deputy Vice Chancellor, Indigenous Education and Strategy. JCU becomes only the third Australian university to establish an Indigenous leadership position at the Deputy Vice Chancellor level.

Professor Nakata joined JCU in 2016, and as Pro Vice Chancellor has led the Indigenous Education and Research Centre. He was one of JCU’s inaugural Outstanding Alumni, and he was also the first Torres Strait Islander in Australia to graduate with a PhD, which was completed at JCU.

“This level of appointment will assist me to drive the policy work across the university, and help build strong and mutually beneficial partnerships with industry and community partners to close the education, health and employment gaps for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in North Queensland,” Professor Nakata said. “I look forward to making a contribution also to the important role JCU plays in the region.”

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Engaging businesses

Creating knowledge

Working together