Deputy Vice Chancellor Indigenous
Advancing excellence across strategy, education & research.
UNSW is deeply committed to building a university where Indigenous representation, knowledges and leadership are embedded at the heart of our purpose, our decision‑making and our contribution to society. This Indigenous Strategy reflects our collective responsibility to honour those who came before us, empower those working with us today and create lasting legacies for the generations to come. It affirms that Indigenous outcomes are a whole‑of‑university responsibility and fundamental to UNSW’s integrity, excellence and impact.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous
The Deputy Vice‑Chancellor Indigenous (DVCI) Division leads UNSW’s commitment to Indigenous futures, knowledge and leadership. Guided by Indigenous voices and led by Professor Leanne Holt, the division works across the whole university to support Indigenous students and staff, grow Indigenous research, and ensure Indigenous knowledges are respected, valued and embedded in everything UNSW does.
Reporting directly to the Vice‑Chancellor, the DVCI Division brings together Indigenous education, research and engagement through Nura Gili and the Pro Vice‑Chancellor Indigenous portfolios. It leads initiatives such as the Micro‑Treaty and the Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property (ICIP) Protocol and plays a key role in delivering UNSW’s commitment to the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
Acknowledgement of Country
An Acknowledgement of Country is a way to show awareness of and respect for the Traditional Custodians of the land and recognise Aboriginal peoples’ continuing connection to Country and may be delivered by Indigenous or non‑Indigenous people. Within the University it is commonly used at meetings or events, particularly significant ones involving external guests, but it is not mandated, not required for all meetings (including most virtual or routine internal meetings), and only one acknowledgement is sufficient. Acknowledgements should be delivered thoughtfully, without repetition by multiple speakers, and without combining them with other causes or statements, respecting Indigenous concerns about empty or performative gestures.
A powerful vision for the future of UNSW
UNSW Indigenous Strategy
A powerful vision for the future of UNSW
View our strategyExplore
Connect with our community and discover what makes us unique. From our world‑leading research and vibrant campus culture to pathways for current and future Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander students, these resources help you learn more about who we are and what we offer.
Our research
Make an impact and help build a better future through Indigenous strategy, education and research.
About us
Our team works across a diverse portfolio to lead the UNSW Indigenous Strategy and strengthen the Indigenous student experience.
Nura Gili
Nura Gili is UNSW’s centre for Indigenous programs, connecting students, staff and community through support, opportunity and cultural knowledge. It leads the University’s commitment to enriching Australia by strengthening Indigenous capacity and embedding Indigenous knowledge, cultures and histories across the UNSW community.
Community & culture
Nura Gili is a place of belonging and connection, fostering a strong sense of community grounded in Indigenous culture, knowledge and shared experience. It brings people together to learn, support one another, and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures as an integral part of the UNSW community.
Current students Nura Gili
Nura Gili is here to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students throughout their UNSW journey, offering academic support, community, and a culturally safe space to thrive. With tailored programs, resources and guidance, it helps students succeed in their studies and feel connected on campus.
Future students Nura Gili
Nura Gili welcomes future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with pathways, programs and a supportive community designed to help you start your university journey with confidence. It’s a place to build skills, explore opportunities and find a home at UNSW.
