Challenge

The revised Australian Government’s National Science and Research Priorities identify 'elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems' as one of five national priorities for Australian science and research.

The National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), chaired by Australia’s Chief Scientist Professor Tony Haymet, commissioned Professor Peter Radoll of Radoll & Associates, supported by CIS, to examine how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems can be better recognised, respected and elevated within Australia’s science and research system.

Approach

Working in partnership with Professor Peter Radoll, CIS supported a multi-stage national research and consultation project. The project combined Professor Radoll’s Indigenous leadership, lived experience, and expertise, with CIS’ capabilities in research, consultation, analysis and the translation of complex evidence into practical strategy.

Our support included:

• Undertaking an extensive review of published and grey literature spanning the past 30 years, examining the intersection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems and Western science in Australia.

• Identifying examples of effective Indigenous-led and co-designed research, together with gaps, opportunities and considerations for strengthening future practice.

• Mapping the national science and research ecosystem and identifying key organisations, initiatives and stakeholders.

• Engaging in extensive national consultation, involving more than 90 people through approximately 25 discussions across Australia, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices prioritised throughout the engagement process.

• Synthesising the evidence and consultation findings into practical recommendations and a long-term implementation roadmap for the Australian science and research system.

Outcome

The project resulted in two national reports for the NSTC: Elevating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Knowledge Systems in Australian Science: Research Report and an Implementation Plan, authored by the Radoll & Associates and CIS team. Together, the reports provide an evidence base and strategic roadmap for progressing the Priority, including actions across research leadership and governance, research protocols and engagement, funding and resources, workforce capability, and public education and awareness.

The reports were presented by NSTC expert member and project sponsor, Professor Reuben Bolt, to the Chief Scientist and Prime Minister, and will be used to inform national consideration of how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems can be elevated across Australia’s science and research landscape.