Indigenous employment

Indigenous employment

Detail of painting depicting a hand

We are committed to seeing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples engaged at the scientific frontier, making exciting discoveries and decisions about the future of health in Australia, and being part of a leading professional services workforce supporting the realisation of these discoveries. 

This vision will be achieved by: 

  • Being a culturally safe place that values Indigenous knowledge and actively addresses structural racism 
  • Providing opportunities for the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical and health researchers 
  • Supporting the career progression and development of First Nations people through sustained investment 
  • Prioritising access to institute expertise, facilities and technology for Indigenous researchers to further their own research 
  • Forming partnerships with key stakeholders to enhance employment and education opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people  

A strategic commitment  

To realise this vision WEHI has developed its first Indigenous Employment Strategy.  

This four year strategy focusses on increasing the participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at all levels of WEHI in both research and professional services and outlines a framework to support and develop existing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff and students. 

Ongoing commitment to reconciliation 

This initiative is another important step in WEHI’s reconciliation journey. It builds on our commitments to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment outlined in our Reconciliation Action PlanDiversity and Inclusion Strategy, and the Strategic Plan 2019-2023.  

Further information

Painting of a hand by artist Robert Young

WEHI takes a holistic approach to reconciliation, striving to embed our commitment across all aspects of institute life and our place in the community.

Colourful artwork of hand, by Robert Young

A funding opportunity for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander researchers to collaborate with us to advance their research and careers.

Students stand in small groups, wearing casual clothing, in front of poster boards, large windows are seen in the background

A community of researchers, students and professional service staff working in an environment that develops engaged and productive members.

Professor Phil Hodgkin talking to his team

WEHI promotes a scientific environment that emphasises innovation, collaboration and excellence.

Explore the current opportunities to join our team.