The Australian Department of Education is seeking online submissions from individuals and organisations to help shape First Nations education in Australia.
The Australian Government made a commitment to develop the policy as part of the 2024–25 Budget and the Better and Fairer Schools Agreements (BFSA).
Once developed, the new First Nations Education Policy will provide a clear national framework for action in First Nations education. The aim in developing the Policy includes:
- defining the national aspirations for First Nations education by outlining shared priorities and establishing how change will be enacted and evaluated
- translating national commitments - such as the Mparntwe Education Declaration, Better and Fairer Schools Agreements 2025–2034 (BFSA), the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Early Childhood Strategy, the Universities Accord and the National Agreement on Closing the Gap - into tangible action
- being adaptable to different contexts, recognising the roles of states, territories, and local communities.
The Policy is being developed in partnership with key First Nations education stakeholders, state and territory governments, and the non-government education sector, to accelerate improvement in educational outcomes of First Nations learners. To shape the future of First Nations education, it is vital to hear from First Nations people. The department and First Nations partners aim to ensure the voices and perspectives of First Nations communities are heard, understood, and built into the policy.
For more information and to find out how to contribute, visit First Nations Education Policy.