Our vision for Reconciliation | RAP

Our vision

Our vision Our University Sphere of influence

Our vision for Reconciliation

Flinders University envisions a future where reconciliation is deeply embedded in the lived actions of our community - guided by truth-telling, mutual respect and the self determination of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Building on our intentional action and accountability, we strive to foster a university culture that actively contributes to healing, justice and unity.

We recognise that understanding and incorporating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing strengthens our institution. These Indigenous knowledge systems enrich our teaching, learning and research, making Flinders University more resilient, inclusive, and innovative. By embracing dual knowledges and cultural perspectives, we deepen our capacity to respond to complex societal challenges and create transformative educational experiences.

Through deep listening, reciprocity and shared accountability, we commit to embedding Indigenous perspectives across our curriculum and research agendas. We acknowledge our sphere of influence in shaping race relations, policy and public discourse.

Implementing this Stretch RAP together, we walk a path of reconciliation that empowers all members of our university community to be committed to the elimination of racism and contribute meaningfully to a reconciled Australia.

Image: Cultural Connection Program 2026, Jack Buckskin

Our University

Flinders University’s footprint spans the traditional lands of the Arrernte, Dagoman, First Nations of the South-East, First Peoples of the River Murray and Mallee region, Jawoyn, Kaurna, Larrakia, Ngadjuri, Ngarrindjeri, Ramindjeri, Warumungu, Wardaman and Yolngu people. We honour Elders past, present and emerging.

Across Australia, Flinders operates in many locations including metropolitan campuses at Bedford Park, Tonsley and the Adelaide CBD, regional South Australian sites in the Barossa, Berri, Mount Gambier, Murray Bridge, Nuriootpa, Renmark and Victor Harbor. In the Northern Territory we are present in Alice Springs, Darwin, Katherine, Nhulunbuy and Tennant Creek. Flinders also delivers programs online, supporting learners throughout Australia and internationally.

Flinders University was founded in an era of profound social, political and technological change. Since 1966, we’ve nurtured an inclusive culture that transcends borders and backgrounds because we believe in equity and opportunity for all.

Fairness and inclusion have been the foundation of Flinders since its inception. From our first Indigenous person to graduate from Flinders in 1971 – John Moriarty AM, to the appointment of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Indigenous) in 2020. Flinders has nurtured a deep and enduring commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples representation across education, research, employment and governance.

In 2025, Flinders University enrolled 20,124 students – 463 of whom identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, constituting 2.3% of all domestic students.

As of 31st March 2025, Flinders University had 1,230 academic staff and 1,465 professional staff from 94 countries, 67 staff identified as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, comprising 2.49% of our workforce.

Our footprint through regional, rural and remote communities has seen us at the forefront of education and research programs in medicine, nursing and allied health - investing back into the communities we serve and helping to advance the health, social and economic outcomes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living and working in these communities.

2.59%

Staff employed (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples)

data as 12/05/26

2.3%

Staff employed (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples)

data as 12/05/26

2.3%

Staff employed (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples)

data as 12/05/26

Sphere of Influence

Reconciliation is central to Flinders University’s vision for the future. With global recognition from the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, in 2025 Flinders was ranked:

2nd in the world for reduced inequalities (SDG 10)
5th in the world for gender equality (SDG 5)
10th in the world for climate action (SDG 13)
11th in the world for good health and wellbeing (SDG 3)

Our impact rankings are only possible because our students and communities always come first. As a high-profile university with global impact, Flinders University continues to embed reconciliation and amplify actions and outcomes through our vast and diverse communities (local, national and international), our networks, partnerships and platforms.

Our approach is driven by and vested in Flinders’ leadership – University Council, Senior Executive Team and our staff. Our influence extends far beyond our physical campus footprints. With more than 140,000 alumni and working with more than 100 partner institutions across 34 different countries, Flinders has strong relationships with industry, government, peak bodies, not for profit organisations and other networks. This provides ongoing opportunities to significantly amplify our reconciliation actions right across our global reach.

Image: Cultural Connection Program 2026, Jack Buckskin

Sphere of Influence

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