New First Nations led study and research academy launches

New First Nations led study and research academy launches

Yoonggama will today launch at RMIT University, supporting self-identified land-based learning and research opportunities for First Nations people.

The centre will operate autonomously; however, a dedicated hub has been established at the RMIT City Campus to provide a physical meeting point for First Nations students and academics.

Several projects are already underway, focusing on First Nations Knowledge Systems across language, art, performance and culture. 

The centre is expected to expand into a sovereign, self-determined First Nations academy with additional locations on Country, transcending any one university or site.

The name Yoonggama is derived from Keerray Woorroong and Arrernte language terms, meaning reciprocity. 

It complements RMIT’s responsible practice strategies, including the Ngarara Willim Centre for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. 

Dr Vicki Couzens and Professor Suzi Hutchings.

Quotes attributable to Dr Vicki Couzens, Lead, Yoonggama Ma Nga
ARC DECRA Fellow, Associate Professor, School of Media and Communication, RMIT

"Yoonggama will be an autonomous, self-determined research and training academy for our own identified priorities and land-based learning. It's the culmination of a lifetime's work in our community.

"Everything comes from Country, so research and learning outcomes could be anything from cultural knowledge and practices,  language or ceremony, right through to fire burning and revegetation.

"There's a lot of goodwill at RMIT, and there is an opportunity to establish something new, and actually create a space and a place outside the Western, capitalist framework, which isn't designed for First Nations success."

Quotes attributable to Deputy Vice-Chancellor Design and Social Context and Vice-President Tim Marshall

"Our vision for Yoonggama is to be the first stepping stone towards a sovereign, self-determined First Nations academy.

“Yoonggama is part of RMIT’s commitment to carving out safe and inclusive spaces for First Nations academics, who can operate on their own terms, with operational support from RMIT.   

“Its establishment signifies a new paradigm, in which First Nations academics will determine their own research priorities, training and learning needs."  

09 July 2025

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09 July 2025

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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