First Nations Education Policy

Leading Higher Education Reform through Indigenous Self-Determination

The Australian Government, in partnership with First Nations communities and peak bodies, is developing a new First Nations Education Policy (FNEP). This policy is designed to accelerate improvements in the outcomes and experiences of First Nations learners across the entire educational lifecycle.

What is the First Nations Education Policy?

The FNEP aims to define national aspirations and priorities for First Nations education. It begins in early childhood education and schooling and continues through to chosen pathways after school.

The policy will be finalised in 2026.

NATSIHEC’s Role: Supporting the Mission

As the peak body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Higher Education, NATSIHEC is a critical partner in the development and implementation of this policy. Our mission is to ensure that the Higher Education sector is a leader in Indigenous self-determination and academic excellence.

To support the FNEP, NATSIHEC is currently:

• In partnership with NATSIEC, NIYEC, and NATSIPA, we are facilitating community-led consultations to ensure First Nations voices lead the Higher Education reform.
• Ensuring that the FNEP aligns with the Universities Accord to create a tertiary sector that is culturally safe, accessible, and grounded in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership.
• Providing expert advice to government and university leadership to ensure that the “post-school pathways” identified in the FNEP reflect the aspirations of our People.
• Working at the formation stage of the FNEP to ensure that Higher Education priorities are not an afterthought  are central to the national education agenda.

Engagement and Collaboration

There is a strong focus on collaboration throughout the Policy’s development. NATSIHEC is committed to ensuring that the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in regional, remote, and metropolitan areas are at the heart of the final 2026 policy.

IN COLLABORATION WITH

This consultation is delivered in collaboration with leading higher education institutions and sector organisations. We acknowledge their partnership in co-designing the agenda, facilitating dialogue, and supporting stakeholder engagement.