Deakin University - Nikeri Institute

26/05/2026

To celebrate Reconciliation Week, Deakin are hosting a number of events across the campuses.

Weaving Workshops (No bookings needed. Just drop in anytime throughout the sessions. All students and staff are welcome):

Waurn Ponds Campus, 2 June 10.30am - 2.30pm, Waurn Ponds Library, Level 2

Burwood Campus, 2 June 10.00am - 2.00pm, Burwood Library, Level 2

Warrnambool Campus, 2 June 10.30am - 2.30pm, Warrnambool Library

Waterfront Weaving Workshop: 3 June 10.30am - 2.30pm, Waterfront Library

Deakin Art Gallery Virtual Exhibition - A selection of works from the university art collection by First Nations women from Southwestern Australia can be viewed via the online virtual exhibition space.

25/05/2026

Congratulations to our NIKERI Social Work academics Joleen Ryan and Jesse Ivelja on their recent chapter publication.

Their chapter 'Embracing fear: Building a framework for allyship' is featured in the newly published 'Aboriginal Social Work Voices' text.

Understanding and respectfully engaging with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities is vital for the future of social work in Australia.Authored by a…

21/05/2026

Tamara Thomas - 2026 Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Nurse/Midwife of the Year 🌟💜

Tamara has been recognised for her exceptional commitment to culturally safe care, advocacy and compassionate support for patients and families.

She is described as a strong advocate who consistently ensures Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients feel respected, heard and supported throughout their healthcare journey.

Her dedication, professionalism and connection to community make a profound difference to the experiences and outcomes of the people she cares for.

20/05/2026

Today NIKERI participated in Federation Uni's Deadly Aspirations Day. It was great to meet so many young mob in the Victorian Central Highlands region at the Mount Helen Campus. Thankyou to everyone who came and yarned with us, sharing their aspirations and stories, and for the Fed Uni's Aboriginal Education Centre, Department of Education, and Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc. for hosting such a deadly event.

15/05/2026

What a deadly experience attending the 2026 Koorie Youth Summit!

It was fantastic connecting with so many young mob, community members, and organisations throughout the two-day statewide event. We loved having yarns about the work we do, the opportunities available, and hearing everyone’s stories, experiences, and aspirations for the future.

A big thank you to the Koorie Youth Council for putting together such a successful and inspiring event — we’re appreciative to have been part of it!

28/04/2026

What a deadly day at the Regional Koorie Big Day Out in Warrnambool today!
It was a privilege to connect with local secondary school students, KESOs and community members and be part of a day that celebrated culture, learning and future pathways. Thank you to Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc. and Toorong Marnong for hosting such a meaningful and engaging event.

20/04/2026

On Friday night, the NIKERI Institute joined local community to experience a deadly event hosted by the Karroong Kanyool Youth Hub. Serving Up Stories was a cultural dining experience led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people where they shared stories of the local lands and waterways through performance. Congratulations to the young mob, Wathaurong Aboriginal Co Op and supporting organisations on creating an unforgettable and powerful experience, and sharing it with us.

10/04/2026

Last month some NIKERI Institute staff members travelled to Sydney to join the Sydney Swans First Nations Academy for an exciting new project – Moving the Next Generation. In partnership with the Academy and University of New South Wales, Deakin University is developing an AI-powered platform designed to have major educational impacts in movement for First Nations youth. We’re grateful for the opportunity to connect with First Nations coaches from across the state who shared their insights and expertise, and we look forward to working together to create this deadly platform.

20/03/2026

On Closing the Gap Day, NIKERI was invited to visit Framlingham in Southwest Victoria to take part in the Kirrae Health Service's Closing the Gap Day community event.

It was so great to yarn with community members and share information about our study pathways into health careers, such as our Bachelor courses in Nursing, Social Work, Arts and Psychology, along with our Master of Public Health, and how these can support people wanting to make a difference in their communities.

The event was centred on strengthening connections between local Mob and vital health services and initiatives. Attendees engaged with a wide range of stallholders, including medical clinics, health campaigns, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs), Aboriginal Community Health Organisations (ACCHOS), aged care providers, and more.

A big thank you to the Kirrae Health Service Inc. for having us along again – it’s always a deadly event and we’re grateful to be part of it.

05/03/2026