Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Support

Wellbeing and safety

The ACT’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Student Support Policy describes how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are supported in culturally appropriate ways, in a fair and inclusive academic environment free from racism and discrimination, and with resources and services which promote academic flourishing.

The ACT and affiliated colleges recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are disproportionately affected by many of the issues impacting a student’s wellbeing. As such, we have gathered together culturally relevant services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students for each of the areas of wellbeing Student Support Services page.

Mental Health and Wellbeing: The Black Dog Institute has social and emotional wellbeing sources as well as a directory of other mental health services for First Nations peoples.

Physical Safety: NACCHO’s map locates 140 Aboriginal-controlled health organisations nationwide.

Online Safety: eSafetyFirstNations is a resources package created in consultation with First Nations peoples to help them stay safe online.

SASH, Sexual Violence, Domestic and Family Violence: Wirringa Baiya is the Aboriginal Women’s Legal Centre and provides fact sheets on bullying, discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault and domestic and family violence.

Academic Stress: The Oorala Aboriginal Centre at University of New England has study skills videos and other academic skills resources.

Financial Wellbeing: First Nations Foundation provides free financial literacy training and further resources.

Substance Abuse: The Alcohol and Drug Foundation has collaboratively created Indigenous Resources. Positive Choices provides access to national and state-based aboriginal-controlled alcohol and drug services.

Disability: First Peoples Disability Network (FPDN) a national human rights organisation of and for Australia’s first peoples with disability, their families, and communities. It is led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with disability.