Many higher education providers have support services specifically for Indigenous students. Many have Indigenous Support Units which provide an identifiable Indigenous presence on campus and a first point of contact for enquiries about Indigenous matters. They also provide a focal point for Indigenous activity. They offer a range of services and activities, including:
- student orientation
- advice and direction on university courses, requirements, administration and services
- information on cadetships and scholarships
- seminar and tutorial rooms, common spaces and library resources
- study spaces and access to computers, which may include after-hour access
- a place where students can meet and socialise and build an Indigenous student community that provides peer support
- assistance in dealing with government departments
- tutorial assistance
- advice on accommodation.
Indigenous students should contact the Indigenous Support Unit at their institution for assistance.
The Australian Government supports these activities through the Indigenous Support Programme (ISP), which provides funding to higher education institutions to meet the special needs of Indigenous Australian students and to advance the goals of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education Policy.
See also: Student support services
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