About us
Kaya Wanjoo
Welcome to the Centre for Aboriginal Studies
The Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS) provides a culturally safe learning environment for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students as well as non-Indigenous students and staff. Our commitment to cultural safety is reflected in our staff, which includes three Elders, and our shared Midgegoroo meeting place, symbolising the resilience of Aboriginal Resistance Warrior and his son Yagan. Since its establishment in 1974, CAS has been a pioneer in educational innovation and policy development.
Aligned with the vision and strategic goals of Indigenous education at CAS, our Indigenous portfolio focuses on empowering students and fostering leadership. With the highest concentration of qualified Aboriginal staff in Australia, comprising over 90 percent of our team, we cultivate future leaders who champion Indigenous governance and drive meaningful change.
Whether you're just beginning your educational journey or seeking to advance your studies, CAS is here to support you every step of the way.
Indigenous Governance and Leadership
We champion Indigenous governance by nurturing the next generation of leaders, prioritising the principles of self-determination and self-management. Our policies are rooted in active Aboriginal community engagement, fostering a reciprocal exchange of ideas, influences, and practices to ensure culturally appropriate education.
Moreover, we cultivate leaders committed to community empowerment. CAS Alumni Kim Collard exemplifies this ethos by reinvesting in his local community through business initiatives and empowering others.
Our building and facilities
We have a range of facilities and equipment for students and researchers in our purpose-built building on the Curtin Bentley Campus.
See our building and facilities
Our people
Our skilled and knowledgeable staff provide a supportive and welcoming place for Indigenous students and researchers at Curtin.
More about our people