Ethics for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research

If you’re likely to engage with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, knowledges or cultures while conducting research, it is essential to understand your responsibilities and obligations. Your research is required to be safe, respectful, and conducted with a fair and mutual cultural exchange.ÌýÌý

The resources, guidelines and protocols linked below will provide information about how you can conduct your research in this way. They outline key considerations, and highlight some policies, companies, and examples of best practice you can use to inform your research.ÌýÌý

  • Principles and guides

    All research that concerns or impacts Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples must comply with these codes of ethicsÌýand any relevant sector specific codes or guides.

  • Indigenous Cultural Intellectual Property (ICIP)

    ICIP is an internationally-recognised term for the right of Indigenous peoples to decideÌýhowÌýtheir cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expressions may be depicted, andÌýwhoÌýhas permission to do this. It is based on the principles of self-determination and free, prior and informed consent.

    Rights in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait IslanderÌýtraditional knowledge and cultural expressions are imperfectly reflected in ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥n law, but must be respected. ICIP ensures that all participants in research projects are aware of the inclusive nature of Indigenous traditional knowledge and cultural expressions, as well as intellectual property.

  • Indigenous Data Sovereignty

    • ?
      Indigenous Data Sovereignty is the right of Indigenous peoples across the globe to govern the collection, ownership and application of their data. This link explores the foundations of this movement, methodologies, and implications.Ìý

    • Ìý
      This link provides information, videos and presentations about Indigenous Data Sovereignty from the 2019 National Indigenous Research Conference, compiled by AIATSIS.Ìý

    • Ìý
      The CARE Principles are a global standard that provide further structure regarding the rights of Indigenous peoples when they are involved in research.ÌýÌý

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Methodologies

    • (USYD)
      Many traditional research methodologies represent the principles and values of dominant culture. This link explores other research methodologies that may be more applicable when working with diverse cohorts.Ìý


    • This link guides you through various alternate methodologies and methods, with examples from across AotearoaÌýand ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥.Ìý

  • National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC)

    NHMRC create pathways to a healthier future through theirÌýresearch funding, health guidelines and the ethical standards theyÌýset and uphold.

  • Further resources and examples

Wirltu Yarlu

Information regarding the services offered by Wirltu YarluÌýÌý

Research Services

Provides advice and support for ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ researchers and their sponsors

ÐÓ°ÉÖ±²¥ scholarships open to Aboriginal and Torres Straits Islander researchers

Ìý