Empowering First Nations Leadership on Country

The Mabo Centre is a transformational joint initiative of the National Native Title Council and the University of Melbourne.

The Mabo Centre will support Traditional Owners in this transition and First Nations youth to become community leaders and drive economic change in their communities.

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Dr Eddie Koiki Mabo’s legacy

The Mabo legacy is one of empowerment, land and sea justice, and the ongoing fight for Indigenous rights and recognition in Australia. His contributions have had an enduring influence on the landscape of Australian law and society and inspired generations of Indigenous activists and leaders in their fight for recognition and rights to country.

The Mabo Centre also acknowledges the other Meriam people who mounted the landmark Mabo case (Reverend David Passi, Sam Passi, James Rice and one Meriam women, Celuia Mapo Sale) and pay respect to all other Traditional Owners who have led their communities to successful native title claim determinations.

The Mabo Centre will continue on this journey of Indigenous leadership and excellence in law, research and economic empowerment. The Centre’s name has generously been gifted with permission from the Mabo family, recognising the legacy of Dr Eddie Koiki Mabo, a campaigner for land and sea rights and economic development and the forefather of Native Title.

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Our Key Areas of Focus

The Mabo Centre is governed by a Board of First Nations leaders and economic experts. It is championed by Co-Chair Jamie Lowe, Chief Executive Officer of the National Native Title Council, and University of Melbourne alternate Co-Chairs, Professor Marcia Langton, Associate Provost and Professor Paul Kofman, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Economics. The Mabo Centre will work to support Traditional Owners achieve these outcomes. It will achieve this though four focus areas.

Research

Informing national policy development that will support Traditional Owners achieving the best possible outcomes from the resources they control and influence

Training

Working with Traditional Owners and their leadership to strengthen their capacities in crucial policy areas and skills

Exchange

Sharing knowledge through networked learning to support stronger Traditional Owner connections and effective agreement making

Acceleration

Driving entrepreneurship and leadership for Traditional Owner developed economies
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Support Our Mission

Join us in empowering Australia’s Traditional Owners to create lasting economic, social, and cultural change. By supporting the Mabo Centre, you contribute to building stronger First Nations communities, fostering leadership, and unlocking opportunities for regional development.

Your support helps drive innovative research, deliver vital training, and accelerate initiatives that honour Indigenous knowledge and self-determination. Together, we can shape a future where Traditional Owners lead the way in sustainable growth and equity for all.

Partners

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The National Native Title Council is the peak body for the native title sector and Traditional Owners.
The University of Melbourne is Australia’s leading university and a world leader in education, teaching and research.
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The National Native Title Council is the peak body for the native title sector and Traditional Owners.
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The University of Melbourne is Australia’s leading university and a world leader in education, teaching and research.