Indigenous Engagement at Danala, CDU Education and Community Precinct
In the heart of Darwin, traditionally known as Garramilla, the finishing touches are being carried out at 'Danala', Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) new Education and Community Precinct.
In the heart of Darwin, traditionally known as Garramilla, the finishing touches are being carried out at ‘Danala’, Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) new Education and Community Precinct. It’s a project which is not only a state-of-the-art academic facility, but an iconic example of a strong Indigenous Engagement Strategy which honours the rich cultural heritage of the Larrakia peoples.
The Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) is spearheading the implementation of a comprehensive Indigenous Engagement Strategy (IES) in its funded projects and CDU’s Danala city campus has set a benchmark for how Indigenous engagement can lead to enriched outcomes for all stakeholders involved.
The precinct is designed to be a central hub for learning, research, and community engagement. It aims to provide state-of-the-art educational facilities, foster innovative research, and serve as a vibrant space for community events and cultural exchanges.
Central to this initiative is CDU’s First Nations Leadership Team led by Professor Reuben Bolt, CDU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of First Nations Leadership and Engagement. Professor Bolt, has been instrumental in guiding the project's cultural and strategic direction. His leadership has ensured that the First Nations perspective is woven into every facet of the precinct’s development.
There has been a focus on meaningful engagement from the onset with our Larrakia Academic in Residence Dr Aunty Bilawarra Lee, to ensure that the cultural significance of the land and the voices of the Larrakia people were integral to the project's design and implementation.
Professor Reuben Bolt
Charles Darwin University
This approach is reflected in the prominent display of Larrakia languages and cultural symbols throughout the precinct, including a permanent Welcome to Country in the main foyer and wayfinding signs in both English and Larrakia.
The Indigenous Engagement Strategy for the CDU project is a product of NAIF’s broader commitment to Indigenous outcomes in the communities we serve. Key aspects of this strategy include:
- Continuous engagement to showcase and respect Larrakia culture, ensuring that traditional protocols are honoured.
- Comprehensive cultural training programs for all new employees, fostering an environment of respect and understanding.
- Ambitious targets for Indigenous businesses and employment. The project set a target of 3% for Indigenous suppliers during the construction phase and an 8.8% Indigenous employment target.
The results of these commitments have been outstanding. The project achieved 13% Indigenous employment, significantly surpassing its initial target. The project procured around $700,000 through Indigenous suppliers, far exceeding the 3% target by achieving 12% Indigenous business spend during the Package 2 Earthworks phase.
It's critically important for the leadership of various organisations or companies to engage meaningfully with First Nations peoples. If you can co-design a building or a program with traditional owners, you ensure cultural appropriateness and it is important that this is embedded in the spirit of the building.
As NAIF continues to fund infrastructure projects across northern Australia, the CDU City Campus is an example of what can be achieved through genuine collaboration and respect for Indigenous cultures. This project demonstrates that when Indigenous Engagement Strategies are implemented thoughtfully and inclusively, the results are beneficial for everyone involved.
The CDU Danala campus is really exciting. We will have a lot of international students, and it's crucial to have the design that includes Larrakia engagement. This ensures that our international students receive a proper Larrakia welcome, which is essential for their integration and cultural respect.
Danala, Charles Darwin University’s (CDU) new Education and Community Precinct is due to officially open in Q3 of this calendar year.
For more information on NAIF’s projects and their commitment to Indigenous engagement, visit the Charles Darwin University Education and Community Precinct Project page.
