ARC Laureate: Transforming cities for Indigenous Peoples' social and emotional wellbeing

Our Vision

This Laureate Program will establish and deliver a long-term, First Nations-led urban research agenda that centres Indigenous methodologies, knowledge systems, and community priorities. Grounded in transdisciplinary, relational, and collaborative approaches, the program will generate transformative research, practical solutions, and lasting outcomes that help future-proof Australian cities for First Nations Peoples.

At its core, the program is guided by the principles of equity, inclusion, empowerment, and self-determination.

Our Objectives

The program seeks to:

• Enhance social inclusion, empowerment, and agency for First Nations Peoples living in Australian cities.
• Build and support a new generation of First Nations researchers leading urban-focused research.
• Develop strategies, tools, data systems, and evidence to guide future urban planning and decision-making.
• Establish the foundations for a national Australian First Nations Urban Research Centre.

Research Work Packages

The program is delivered through four interconnected research streams:

1. Cultural Pride, Identity and Belonging

How can First Nations perspectives, cultures, and histories be more meaningfully embedded in the design, infrastructure, and identity of Australia's cities to strengthen social and emotional wellbeing?

2. Economic Participation and Entrepreneurship

How can cities, institutions, and communities work together to address intergenerational disadvantage and create pathways to economic participation, prosperity, and First Nations entrepreneurship?

3. Indigenous Knowledges for Sustainable Cities

How can Indigenous knowledge systems and practices inform urban sustainability, environmental stewardship, and healthier, more resilient communities?

4. Data, Governance and Research Infrastructure

What data systems, governance frameworks, infrastructure, and cultural considerations are required to support the current and future needs of urban First Nations Peoples and establish a national First Nations Urban Research Centre?

Why This Matters

For many First Nations Peoples, the experience of urban life continues to reflect longstanding inequities and exclusion. These realities contribute to ongoing social, cultural, economic, and health disparities across generations. This Laureate Program seeks to change that narrative. Through evidence-based research, community leadership, and meaningful action, the program will help create cities that better support the aspirations, wellbeing, and self-determined futures of First Nations Peoples. In doing so, it will contribute to stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient communities for all Australians.