First peoples: Aboriginal and torres strait islander participation in higher education

Abstract

A Fair Chance for All set out a range of strategies for increasing the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in higher education, including Indigenous student support centres, study support, and alternative entry. Many of these strategies have been implemented, with varying levels of consistency and success. More Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are participating in higher education than ever before, and the rate of Year 12 or equivalent completion is also improving, however the rate of participation is still well below population parity. The continued importance of established strategies, including Indigenous student support, pathways, staffing policies, financial support and educational assistance programs are important to increasing participation and improving attrition rates, has been reiterated by subsequent reviews, most recently the Behrendt review in 2012. However, each of these strategies need further resourcing and are only parts of the picture. Achieving full engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people requires a whole of institution approach to culture and governance.