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.
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.
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Indigenous-led Sea Country management
Join us for this People. Policy. Place Seminar with Dr Jackie Gould as she discusses her work supporting Marra-Led Sea Country management, governance and approaches to ensure the region remains healthy for future generations.
Find out moreDirector'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.
Northern Institute Events
News
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Guidebook to increase student inclusion, retention and unit completion
Read moreA new learning resource designed to engage First Nations students to complete courses and succeed in tertiary education will be rolled out to Charles Darwin University lecturers from today.
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New photography competition and exhibition showcases CDU’s research
Read moreFrom ants encircling their prey to the microscopic details of a moth’s antenna, a new photography competition and exhibition is giving the public a rare glimpse into the fascinating world of academic research.
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Funding boost for invaluable bushfire mapping service
Read moreThe 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.
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.
NI acknowledges the people of the Larrakia Nation (Saltwater People) on whose unceded lands we work and live and recognise 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 Larrakia Land at CDU Casuarina Campus.
⚠️ Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should be aware that this website, linked publications and content may contain images, voices and names of people who have passed.