CQUniversity unveils First Nations Precinct

By Lucy Stafford

Students, staff and community members gathered this week to celebrate the official opening of CQUniversity Rockhampton’s new First Nations Precinct. 

The new space is a purpose-built cultural and learning hub designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and strengthen connection with community.

Spanning multiple buildings at the Rockhampton North Campus, the precinct brings together spaces for cultural practice, learning, teaching, research and gathering, alongside dedicated tutoring and student support services in a culturally safe environment.

CQUniversity Vice-President of Indigenous Engagement Professor Adrian Miller said the precinct marked an important step in creating a university environment where First Nations students feel supported to succeed.

“A culturally safe space allows students to express and share their identity, culture and language while feeling respected and valued,” Prof Miller said.

“When students feel they belong, their wellbeing and academic success naturally follow.

“CQU has a long history of supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in Rockhampton, and this precinct builds strongly on that foundation.”

Prof Miller said the precinct will also play a vital role in strengthening relationships between students, community and the University.

“While this space has been designed primarily to support First Nations students, it also provides opportunities for all students to learn, connect and engage respectfully with culture,” Prof Miller said. 

“It reflects our vision of an inclusive university where everyone feels they belong.”

The development aligns with the University’s Stretch Reconciliation Action Plan and responds to growing expectations across the higher education sector to provide culturally safe learning environments.

“This is CQU’s first precinct-style First Nations space. A fully integrated cultural, student and community hub that brings our reconciliation commitments to life,” Prof Miller said.

“By embedding and elevating First Nations knowledges, cultures and leadership, we are creating a place where genuine reconciliation and shared learning can flourish.”

The precinct carries the traditional name Yirragu Nulu Nhugul, meaning “Here We Belong,” reflecting its role as a place of connection, belonging and shared responsibility between the University and First Nations communities.

Developed in consultation with the Darumbal People, the Traditional Owners of the land, the naming and cultural design were guided by community representatives Nhaya Nicky and LeLarnie Hatfield, with Project Lead and Traditional Owner Charise Iosua working closely with community to ensure the space reflects local knowledge, language and culture.

Traditional language, artwork, design elements and outdoor spaces throughout the precinct honour Country and create a welcoming environment for students, families, staff and visitors.

The project progressed from concept through consultation, design and construction between April 2023 and February 2026, responding to growing First Nations student enrolments and the need for visible, culturally grounded support spaces on campus.

CQU has Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students currently study across vocational education, undergraduate and postgraduate programs at CQU Rockhampton campus, with the precinct expected to host cultural activities, community events and student support programs year-round.

Prof Miller said the precinct would also strengthen relationships between CQU and the wider Rockhampton region.

“It provides a dedicated space where students, staff, Elders and community can come together, share knowledge and build partnerships grounded in respect and collaboration,” Prof Miller said.

“We want First Nations students considering university to know they belong here and that we are committed to supporting them to not only begin their studies but thrive and succeed.”

The official opening featured a Welcome to Country, a plaque unveiling, cultural performances and a community celebration recognising contributors to the project.