First Nations student services

The First Nations Student Support Officers work closely with Colleges and broader university services to coordinate resources and events that enhance the experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Adelaide University. 

Each First Nations Student Support Officer is aligned to a specific College and can provide tailored, culturally informed support throughout your studies. Once you have enrolled, you’ll be connected with a dedicated First Nations Student Support Officer. 

The Cultural Adviser, Kaurna Elder Uncle Rod O’Brien, provides culturally appropriate support to all First Nations students and staff at Adelaide University. 

The Cultural Adviser plays an important role in promoting heritage and culture, bringing a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a willingness to share and teach.  

You can access free and confidential counselling to help with anything affecting your studies or wellbeing. An Aboriginal counsellor is also available for culturally tailored support – for more information, email kurraka@adelaide.edu.au. 

Finding the right place to live is important for your wellbeing and study success. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can explore a range of accommodation options, including: 

• Student housing (Housing SA) 

• Subsidised housing 

• Tika Tirka 

• Independent residential colleges 

• The University of Adelaide Village 

• Mattanya Student Residences 

• Roseworthy Residential College 

• Private rental accommodation.

For specialist accommodation assistance in Adelaide and regionally, contact Adelaide University’s Accommodation Service, who can help you find accommodation that meets your specific needs and budget. Visit the Accommodation webpage for more information. First Nations Student Support can also provide guidance, if required. 

The First Nations Elevate Tutorial Program is a free service that connects Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with academic tutors, matched to their area of study. The program supports students to build academic confidence and strengthen professional and personal skills. Your Elevate tutor can assist with coursework, referencing, research skills, exam preparation and broader study techniques. 

The First Nations Peer Mentoring Program is a free service that supports new undergraduate and enabling First Nations students (mentees) as they transition into university life. It also helps continuing First Nations students (mentors) build leadership skills. The program offers opportunities for mentees and mentors to connect both face-to-face and online, with social activities held throughout the academic year. 

If you’re studying on campus, Wirringka Study Centres offer a community of culturally safe study spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students at Adelaide City (East and West), Magill, Mawson Lakes, Mount Gambier and Whyalla campuses. Adelaide University also has several off-campus study centres in regional and remote locations.

Adelaide University partners with CareerTrackers, a national nonprofit organisation, to provide First Nations students studying full-time with opportunities to create professional career pathways through multi-year paid internships in the public and private sectors. 

CareerTrackers give year-round career guidance and mentorship and sets you up for success with world-class learning and development opportunities in addition to winter and summer internships.