Indigenous
Engagement and Education



Acknowledgement of Country

With respect for Aboriginal cultural protocol and out of recognition that its campuses occupy their traditional lands, Western Sydney University acknowledges the Darug, Eora, Dharawal (also referred to as Tharawal) and Wiradjuri peoples and thanks them for their support of its work in their lands (Greater Western Sydney and beyond).

This video is not to be downloaded, shared or used in any way without express permission from DVCIL@westernsydney.edu.au.

Indigenous Students



Western Sydney University values academic excellence, integrity and the pursuit of knowledge. Ranked in the top two per cent of universities around the world, we are globally focused, research-led and committed to making a positive impact on the communities we engage with. 

As we build towards increasing our Indigenous students and staff to fulfil the WSU Indigenous Strategy 2020-2025, Western continues to provide opportunities for students to learn and succeed in an environment that promotes Indigenous excellence. 

At Western Sydney University the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership is led by Professor Michelle Trudgett in her role as Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership.

Professor Trudgett has the overarching governance responsibility of all things Indigenous at Western Sydney University.

First People's Walk - Kingswood

Anti-Racism Education

All Staff Webinar - The Voice to Parliament 1

All Staff Webinar - The Voice to Parliament 2


2020-2025 Indigenous Strategy

The strategy document currently outlines seven key objectives:

Provide opportunities for Indigenous Students to learn and succeed in an environment that promotes Indigenous excellence.

Position WSU as a place of choice for Indigenous Australians to work in an environment that supports and nurtures their careers.

Develop the breadth and depth of Indigenous Research with a vision to promote research that empowers Indigenous Australians.

Ensure all students develop understanding and knowledge about Indigenous Australians through the Graduate Attribute.

Promote WSU as a place that works with and for the Indigenous Australian community.

Promote leadership opportunities for Indigenous Australians throughout the University.

Build Indigenous Cultural Viability and Knowledge across the University.


Indigenous Futures Decadal Strategy 2023-2032

Released 6.7.2023.


Download the School and Institute Indigenous Strategies


Western Sydney University Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee

Western Sydney University Indigenous Elders Advisory CommitteeWestern has a vibrant group of Indigenous Australian Elders who provide advice to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership and the university, on matters related to Indigenous culture. As esteemed members of their own communities, the Elders provide a connection between the university and matters impacting the Indigenous community in Greater Western Sydney. The Elders also assist in building Indigenous cultural viability and knowledge across the university and support Indigenous staff and students, as required. The university community consults the Elders on a diverse array of matters, ranging from the design of new spaces to the sharing of university Indigenous strategic matters. 

The committee is Chaired by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership and membership is comprised of up to eight Indigenous people who are recognised as Elders in the community. Membership is for a term of two years and the committee meets four times per year. Sitting fees are provided.

Ignite Indigenous Traineeship Program

Western Sydney University through the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership (ODVCIL) provides a vocational pathway
for Indigenous participants to gain paid experience in university operations as
business administration trainees. 

The Yarning Circle

It is with great pleasure that the Office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership presents the Autumn 2023 edition of The Yarning Circle. Enjoy reading about the success and excellence of Western Sydney University's Indigenous students, staff, researchers, alumni, Elders, and find out more about the support and opportunities offered.

Indigenous Staff



Here at Western Sydney University we are committed to a population parity of 3% by 2025 with up to 20 new positions created across Western for Indigenous academics and at least 5 new traineeships for professional staff. 

We are positioning Western as a place of choice for Indigenous Australians to work in an environment that supports and nurtures their careers. In return Indigenous staff members bring community connections and cultural insights that expand the mission of Western and help it better reflect its community.

Indigenous Student Success Program

Indigenous Staff and Students Spotify Playlist

Events and activities at Western are as diverse as the people.

For 2021, we have a Spotify list prepared by our Indigenous Staff and Students for your enjoyment. Podcasts from Indigenous Academics and students can also be found here.