Progressing Aboriginal Education at UTas – Strategic Directions

Associate Professor Clair Andersen presented the Society’s Annual Tasmanian Aboriginal Lecture entitled “Celebrating Indigenous Knowledges and Excellence at UTAS” in Hobart on Sunday 3 May 2026.

Associate Professor Clair Andersen focused on the University of Tasmania’s (UTAS) new 2026-2030 strategy to enhance the participation and success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at the university. The strategy is guided by the principles of respect, reciprocity, relationality, responsibility, relevance, and reconciliation – principles designed to allow the University to focus its work through impact and intent.

Clair provided insights into the practical ways these core ideas are being realised at UTAS: through working with others, understanding the impact, and ensuring that actions line up with intentions.

Clair’s people come from the Gulf country in the Northern Territory where she has Yanyuwa and Gunggalida clan connections. She grew up on Warumungu country and began her education in Tennant Creek, before being sent to Tasmanian, where she completed high school and a Bachelor of Education at UTAS.

Thoughout her life, Clair has been involved in the development of teaching and learning programs and resources to enhance student learning, improve understanding of Australia’s Indigenous peoples, and build better futures. In 2005 Clair was inducted onto Tasmania’s Honour Roll of Women for her service to education and training.

Whilst Clair has held several senior positions, she is currently the Indigenous Higher Education Advisor at UTAS. Her research interests revolve around improving education and training pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and the development of appropriate learning resources.