Research
The Mabo Centre’s research program is grounded in First Nations knowledge and responsive to Traditional Owner needs.
Through consultation with Traditional Owners, Indigenous leaders and their communities, our research themes have been developed to empower Traditional Owners to successfully negotiate agreements for social, cultural, and economic benefit.
Our Research
The Mabo Centre’s research program generates knowledge to support Traditional Owners to build capability, develop skills, and strengthen capacity for economic benefit.
Data from our research outputs provides an evidence base to support systemic change across the native title sector, and create a fairer, more efficient native title system.
Eminent Visiting Fellow Program
The Mabo Centre’s Eminent Visiting Fellow program brings together senior Traditional Owners, Indigenous leaders and established and emerging First Nations researchers and policy practitioners whose work focuses on First Nations economic empowerment.
Supported by our academic partner the University of Melbourne, this program provides a platform for senior Traditional Owners and First Nations leaders, academics, and scholars to help shape the economic future of Australian First Nations communities and drive real change through research outcomes.
Our Research Team
Comprised of established academics and researchers, native title lawyers and senior First Nations leaders, the Mabo Centre’s research team holds extensive specialist knowledge and are leaders in their fields.
By recognising and elevating knowledge rooted in cultural authority, leadership, and lived experience, we embed Indigenous ways of thinking, being and doing into our research program.
Our Research In Action
More than three decades after the landmark Mabo decision, Traditional Owners and their communities continue to navigate a complex native title system.
Since our establishment in March 2025, the Mabo Centre’s research program has worked towards translating this legal recognition into greater economic empowerment for Traditional Owners and their communities.