Skip to main content
Start of main content
Close up of sandstone rocks in Nightcliff

Northern Institute

People. Policy. Place.

The Northern Institute is a regional leader in social and policy research. In partnership with governments, industry, non-government organisations and communities, we aim to make positive changes by providing strong evidence for policy and program development. 

CDU Engaging Governance Facilitators

Our Research & Partnerships

Explore

NI staff members infron tof banner in Alice Springs

Our People & Governance

Explore

Researcher Jen Macdonald takes sound recordings of Rapid Creek waters

Our Postgrad & Research Degrees

Explore

Audience at Central Australian Research Showcase 2024

Our Events, Seminars & News

Explore

Young Aboriginal student at a CDU open day

Featured project

This project, Increasing the Numbers of Aboriginal Teachers in the NT, aims to assist educational providers in empowering Australian First Nations people to become teachers, improve educational outcomes for Aboriginal people and change deficit discourse around Indigenous education. Dr Tracy Woodroffe discusses the project and more. 

Find out more
Warriors defend country - book expert
PhD Confirmation of Candidature

Greenskin: Warrior Traditions in Defence of Country

Join us for this PhD Confirmation of Candidature presentation by Ben Ward: 'Greenskin: Warrior Traditions in Defence of Country'.

Director's message

Welcome to Northern Institute (NI). Since its establishment at Charles Darwin University in 2010, the NI has become one of the leading centres for social and policy research in Northern Australia. The Institute draws on the expertise of nearly 50 core research staff trained in anthropology, sociology, social policy, public health, demography, statistics, economics, education, linguistics, environmental science, Indigenous studies, and more. We undertake rigorous, ethical research and research training relevant to regional and remote societies, all with a demonstrated commitment to working in partnership with government, non-government, industry, and community sectors. This includes partnering internationally, particularly in Asia and the Pacific.

Since its formation, the NI has pioneered meaningful forms of collaborative and co-designed research and evaluation, especially with First Nations organisations and communities, and we pride ourselves on the integrity of these partnerships. Equally, we have an unparalleled knowledge of regional and remote issues and the policy context of Northern Australia – making us a key agency for informed, independent analysis. With branches in Garramilla/Darwin and Mparntwe/Alice Springs – and a pool of researchers with decades of experience working locally, internationally, and on country – the NI is a respected ‘think tank’ for regional Australia and beyond.

Professor Kim Humphery standing on a Northern Institute staircase

Professor Kim Humphery
Director, Northern Institute

Meet our director

Northern Institute Events

News

  • A NAFI satellite image of fires across the Top End. NAFI Thas received a $588,000 grant through the Disaster Resilience Australia Package.

    Funding boost for invaluable bushfire mapping service

    The North Australia and Rangelands Fire Information service at Charles Darwin University will continue to guide thousands of people through Northern Australia’s intense fire seasons after being awarded a Federal Government grant for operations. 

    Read more
  • two male researchers pose for camera

    Research showcase uncovers impact of local studies

    For the first time the Charles Darwin University Northern Institute will host a research showcase in Alice Springs to highlight projects, how organisations can get involved and what impact research has in the region. 

    Read more
  • NT Pathways to Politics for Women graduate Asta Hill is running in the upcoming NT general election.

    Politics program empowers women to stand for NT election

    A program run by Charles Darwin University to upskill women to pursue a career in politics has reached a significant milestone, with three graduates running for the upcoming Northern Territory general election. 

    Read more

Northern Institute’s research & teaching aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals, and we work to foster a world of equity, diversity & sustainability for present and future generations.

UN Goals
Larrakia Nation Logo Crocodile

Northern Institute acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country on which we live and work and recognises their continuing connection to communities, land and waters. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and elders past and present. Our Research Support Services is located on beautiful Larrakia Land at CDU Casuarina Campus. Find out more about Larrakia Nation (Saltwater People)

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people should be aware that this website & linked publications and content may contain images, voices, names of deceased people. 

Back to top