First Nations Policies and Cultural Resources

The Indigenous Engagement Division leads the development of multiple initiatives to position CQUniversity as a regional leader in First Nations tertiary education, research and community partnerships.

Collectively, these aim for the success of First Nations students and graduates, to deliver strengths-based research with impact, and instil First Nations perspectives within the learning and teaching environment. The Indigenous Engagement Division also supports the First Nations Success Strategies Committee (FNSSC).

Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) 2025-2028

Our Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan is the signature framework for realising our reconciliation goals and expanding First Nations programs across the University.

First Nations Education and Student Success Strategy 2024 - 2028

The First Nations Education and Student Success Strategy 2024-2028 focuses on improving First Nations student performance across Central Queensland University’s (CQU) Higher Education (HE) and Vocational Education and Training (VET).

First Nations Research Strategy 2023 - 2028

The First Nations Research Strategy 2023-2028 is a key initiative of our Innovate RAP 2022-2024 and guides longer-term commitments to advancing First Nations research excellence and innovation.

First Nations Workforce Strategy 2026 - 2030

Our First Nations Workforce Strategy strengthens the recruitment, retention and career progression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff. Building on the 2020–2025 Strategy, it enhances recruitment practices, embeds cultural competency, and supports culturally safe onboarding. The 2026–2030 Strategy sets a clear and ambitious pathway to continue building a culturally safe, inclusive and high‑performing workforce where First Nations staff can contribute, lead and succeed at all levels.

Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Protocol

The Indigenous Cultural and Intellectual Property Protocol has been developed as a foundational document to guide, respectful, ethical, and culturally safe engagement with Indigenous Peoples, knowledges, and communities. It sets out the principles and practices that ensure Indigenous voices are prioritised, and cultural integrity is maintained across all aspects of our teaching, research, and community engagement. This protocol serves as a guiding document only,  and should be read in conjunction with CQUniversity’s policies and procedures.

First Nations Cultural Competency Framework

Developing cultural competency via the First Nations Cultural Competency Framework is foundational to ensuring that culturally safe practices are embedded into all business areas, and that both our staff and graduates acquire the skills and attributes necessary to meet the cultural standards of their chosen profession.

First Nations Community Engagement: Industry Guide – Phase 1

The First Nations Community Engagement: Industry Guide Phase 1 was developed from a collaboration between the Indigenous Engagement Division, our university and First Nations community members and leaders. Planning is underway for Phase 2 of this guide which will include community engagement guidelines and protocols from a First Nations perspective.

We are delighted to make the new micro credential available, please visit our Be Different platform for course and enrolment information.

For more information on this guide, check out our First Nations Community Engagement Guide Toolkit.

First Nations Curriculum Framework 2025

The CQU First Nations Curriculum Framework 2025 embeds First Nations knowledges and perspectives across all courses, helping students develop cultural awareness, safety, and competency. Guided by Elders and community voices, it ensures curricula are culturally inclusive and prepares graduates to be career-ready, culturally competent, and supportive of reconciliation.