Research in Community Hands

About the Research Project

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the oldest researchers in the world and continue to use our unique knowledge systems and skills to successfully discover new knowledge and to solve, often complex, issues. Working in the Western world however requires knowledge and understanding of Western research systems and processes, sometimes foreign to Indigenous groups, organisations and communities. In an age where it is finally recognised that power and control in research requires all stakeholders to have equal knowledge and understanding of their rights, responsibilities and processes - the research academy needs to be accountable to ensure that Indigenous groups, organisations and communities have access to that knowledge. To truly achieve ‘community led’ and ‘community driven’ research then Indigenous groups, organisations and communities need to have the capacity to understand and engage with Western research methods and processes to lead and/or effectively engage in the research.

Impact

The aim of this research is to strengthen the research capacity and capability of Indigenous groups, organisations and communities by providing an ‘Introduction to Research Education Program’ explaining the research process, its components and stakeholder rights and responsibilities. This proposed program will assist in strengthening the research capacity and capability of Indigenous groups, organisations and communities by increasing their level of knowledge and understanding of the Western research process and their rights and responsibilities. This increased knowledge and understanding is vital to ensure an equal power base, allowing participating entities to ensure that their knowledge, values and ways of knowing, being and doing are the focus of the research. It also increases confidence in leading research and challenging processes, methods and ethical practices. 

Partners

• Yarrabah Leaders’ Forum 
• Weipa Peninsula Peoples 
• Mackay (Yuiburra)