CAPA & NATSIPA’s Joint Response to Australia’s draft National Science and Research Priorities

Download: CAPA and NATSIPA’s Joint Response to Australia’s draft National Science and Research Priorities

Embracing the First Nations perspectives with authenticity
Our view is that the language used in the draft national priorities indicate a disconcerting approach that can lead to an inauthentic partnership. Take for consideration that the national research priorities have been determined predominantly through a western perspective and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are invited to share their knowledges towards achieving these national priorities. We believe that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples should have the self-determination to pursue knowledges through their perspective in priority areas that affect their communities. If Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledges are being used for the benefit of a research outcome, then First Nations peoples and communities need to be part of the research process from start to finish. This should be central to this policy.