Research pathway strengthens Ilario’s commitment to Indigenous-led change
For CQUniversity alumnus Ilario Sabatino, research offers an opportunity to strengthen communities and ensure Indigenous voices, knowledges and governance practices inform the decisions that affect them.
A Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal professional with extensive experience across government, the non-government sector, community development and policy, Ilario has long been driven by the connection between family, culture, community and his professional life.
“My connection to family, culture and community shapes who I am and how I approach my work,” Ilario said.
“I am passionate about ensuring Indigenous perspectives and governance systems are recognised, respected and strengthened.”
After completing a Master of Business Administration with CQUniversity, Ilario began looking for an opportunity to strengthen his research skills and explore how evidence could contribute to better policy, governance, leadership and community outcomes.
That led him to CQUniversity’s Graduate Certificate in Research.
“While the MBA strengthened my leadership, strategy and governance capabilities, it also highlighted the value of rigorous research in shaping future decisions,” he said.
“I wanted to build the skills and expertise necessary to contribute to knowledge that reflects and supports Indigenous priorities and communities, including informing decision-makers.”
Connecting research and Indigenous governance
During the Graduate Certificate in Research, Ilario focused his research interests on Indigenous governance, with a particular interest in Torres Strait Islander governance systems.
“This area is deeply meaningful to me because governance is not simply about organisational structures,” he said.
“It is about cultural authority, community leadership and ensuring decisions reflect community values and aspirations.”
His research interests centre on recognising the strength and legitimacy of Indigenous governance systems rather than viewing them solely through Western frameworks.
For Ilario, the course also provided a bridge between years of professional experience and a return to academic study.
The course developed his skills across research methodologies, ethics, critical thinking, literature reviews, academic writing and research design, while personalised support from CQUniversity academics helped build his confidence as a researcher.
“As someone returning to formal study after many years in professional leadership roles, the program gave me the skills and knowledge to re-engage with academia,” he said.
“The well-structured nature of the course and the support I received throughout the program were invaluable.”
Regular opportunities to discuss assessments, research processes and academic expectations were particularly valuable.
“The guidance I received helped demystify the research journey and strengthened my confidence as an emerging researcher,” Ilario said.
Balancing study with life
Like many mature-age students, Ilario completed his studies alongside substantial professional, family and community commitments.
“Maintaining that balance required discipline, careful planning and a clear focus on my long-term goals,” he said.
“There were certainly challenging periods, but staying organised, seeking support when needed and remaining connected to the purpose behind my research helped me stay on track.”
Having a research topic closely connected to his values and professional interests also helped maintain his motivation.
Now a provisional PhD candidate, Ilario said the Graduate Certificate in Research provided the academic foundations and confidence needed to take the next step in his research journey.
“The program provides an excellent introduction to academic practice, particularly for professionals returning to university after time in the workforce,” he said.
“It equips students with the skills, confidence and academic foundations required for higher degree research.”
For Ilario, that next chapter is an opportunity to contribute to research that recognises Indigenous knowledge, leadership and governance while supporting outcomes driven by the priorities of communities themselves.
For more information about the Graduate Certificate in Research including study availability, fees and eligibility please the CQUniversity course page.
First Nations students completing the Graduate Certificate in Research are supported by CQUniversity’s Jilbay First Nations Higher Degree by Research Academy.
