Indigenous connection and knowledge

Photo of monash aboriginal gardens clayton campus

Indigenous connection and knowledge

Monash is proud to carry on a legacy of contributing to the advancement and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Victoria and across the nation. With over 50 years of Indigenous programs and engagement, Monash has played a significant role in catalysing change and making life better for Indigenous people.

As outlined in The Monash Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Framework (2019-2030), we aim to do this through realising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aspirations, safeguarding their heritage, and drawing on expertise and resources to involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in faculties and divisions across Monash.

 

Aboriginal Garden

The Aboriginal Garden at our Clayton campus features over 150 species of native plants which sustained the lives of the Koories – the First Nations People of south-eastern Australia. Koorie People have utilised plants for food, medicine, fibre, canoes, houses and many other implements. We encourage everyone in the Monash community to visit the Aboriginal Gardens and learn more.

You can read the labels assigned to each plant to learn about its uses, Indigenous language name, English name, and botanical name, or you can use this pamphlet as your handy guide through the garden.

Image of monash clayton campus aboriginal garden

William Cooper Institute

The William Cooper Institute connects research, learning and engagement for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples with communities through a ‘hub-and-spoke’ model of Indigenous leadership and participation at Monash.

Named after the inspirational Yorta Yorta activist Uncle William Cooper, the Institute oversees the development of targeted strategies to improve Indigenous access, participation and success in education, research, and employment.

A bespoke Indigenous artwork by renowned Yorta-Yorta artists Lyn-Al and Robert Young, which is displayed in the William Cooper Institute 

Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council (VAHC)

VAHC plays a crucial role in helping Victorians respect and understand Aboriginal Cultural Heritage and Traditional Owner responsibilities.

To learn more, click here.

Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Council Logo (Indigenous art)