Flinders University has earned a SAGE Cygnet Award, this time for its efforts to support the engagement and participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
Measurable improvements in Indigenous enrolment and completion
As part of their work with the SAGE framework to improve equity, diversity and inclusion, Flinders has prioritised the improvement of Indigenous enrolments and completion rates.
After establishing the Tarrkarri-ana Committee in 2021 to drive Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student success, Flinders University introduced the Indigenous Student Success Targets (2022-2025) and launched new programs and initiatives focused on attracting, supporting, and retaining more Indigenous students.
These efforts include strengthened governance strategies, alternative entry pathways, and culturally responsive academic support provided by Indigenous Student Support Officers and Deadly Study Skills Advisors.
The University also created culturally safe spaces for social activities and networking at Yungkurrinthi, and improved students’ access to financial assistance, scholarships, accommodation options and academic assistance.
Between 2020 and 2024, Flinders increased its Indigenous student representation by more than 20%. This has included an increase in retention rates of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to 76%, while the progression rate has surged by nearly 20% to 92%.
These achievements were guided by the implementation of two Reconciliation Action Plans, alongside a continued focus on raising awareness and participation in annual NAIDOC and Reconciliation Week celebrations.
An institution-wide support system
Dr Janin Bredehoeft, Chief Executive Officer of SAGE, says this award builds on Flinders’ success in supporting Indigenous staff and recognises their work to build a comprehensive, institution-wide set of support systems for Indigenous students.
“Flinders deserves to be congratulated for prioritising and taking action on First Nations inclusion in a way that has had tangible impacts for Indigenous students.”
Acknowledging students as leaders
Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling said the award reflects Flinders University’s deep commitment to improving educational outcomes for First Nations students.
“We are dedicated to creating pathways that empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed, and this Cygnet Award recognises our determination to break down barriers to participation and engagement at Flinders,” Professor Stirling said.
“Many of our talented Indigenous students are trailblazers, often the first in their family or community to pursue higher education. By celebrating their achievements, we hope to inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps, knowing that Flinders is here to support them every step of the way.”
Promoting a sense of belonging
This is Flinders’ second Cygnet Award, after it was recognised earlier this year for supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous), Professor Simone Tur, said these initiatives underpin the University’s whole-of-institution approach to creating a truly welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.
“At Flinders, it’s all about building a strong sense of belonging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, academic and professional staff,” said Professor Tur.
Read Flinders’ full application for their Cygnet Award here.
