Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education proudly welcomes a transformative $5.1 million investment from the Albanese Labor Government to build new student accommodation at our Alice Springs campus. Announced by Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy, this funding will provide culturally safe housing at the Desert Knowledge Precinct, empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from remote Northern Territory communities.
Supporting Remote Students Through Culturally Safe Housing
The new accommodation will support students enrolled in our diverse range of programmes, from vocational certificates to higher education degrees, many of whom travel vast distances to study. This initiative underscores our commitment to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through education.
“This $5.1 million investment marks a transformative step for Batchelor Institute and our students from remote communities,” says Renee Long, Acting Chief Executive Officer at Batchelor Institute. “For years, we’ve worked to create a culturally safe space for learning, and this new accommodation at our Alice Springs campus will ensure students can focus on their education without the challenges of unsuitable accommodation.”
Renee adds, “We’re deeply grateful to Senator McCarthy and the federal government for recognising the unique needs of our students. This funding supports our mission to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through education, fostering self-determination and strengthening communities across the Northern Territory.”
A Home Away from Home for Indigenous Students
The Desert Knowledge Precinct’s new housing will create a home away from home for students, many of whom travel hundreds of kilometres to pursue their studies. This culturally supportive environment aligns with Batchelor’s commitment to Indigenous education and self-determination.
Professor Kathryn Gilbey, Executive Dean of Higher Education and Research at Batchelor Institute, highlights the impact: “This new accommodation at the Desert Knowledge Precinct will create a home away from home for our students, many of whom travel vast distances to learn with us. By providing a culturally supportive environment, we’re ensuring they can thrive in their studies whilst staying connected to their communities and cultures.”
She adds, “At Batchelor Institute, our ‘Both-ways’ philosophy positions First Nations peoples as knowledge holders in all we do. This $5.1 million investment will enhance our ability to deliver education that respects Indigenous ways of learning, helping students build futures whilst preserving their cultural identities.”
Empowering First Nations Education in the NT
Located in Batchelor, Northern Territory, on Kungarakan and Warai country, Batchelor Institute (RTO No: 0383) is a leader in Indigenous tertiary education. We deliver culturally grounded programmes across the NT, acknowledging the Traditional Custodians of the lands where we operate and paying respects to their Elders past, present, and future.
This funding underscores Batchelor’s ongoing commitment to empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through education, ensuring students from remote communities have the support they need to succeed.
Explore our website to learn more about our programes and how we’re transforming Indigenous education.