Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre

Welcome to the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre, located at Murdoch University on South Street. As an establishment and point of interest, our centre is dedicated to increasing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participation in higher education. We believe that education is freedom, and through awareness and support, we strive to empower students on their academic journey.

The name "Kulbardi" was given to us by respected Noongar elder Ralph Winmar. In Noongar cosmology, the magpie, or kulbardi, symbolizes healing and care. Our centre serves as a gathering place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, honoring a tradition that spans thousands of years – respecting the past, living in the present, and looking forward to the future.

According to Noongar legend, the sky was once so close to the ground that trees could not grow, and people had to crawl. In an effort to hold up the sky, the birds worked together with sticks. However, the clever magpies took a long stick in their beaks and pushed it upwards, causing the sky to spring upwards on its own. This created the first sunrise, and the kulbardi's beautiful song reminds us of its important role in creation each morning.

We acknowledge the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation as the traditional custodians of this country and its waters, recognizing that Murdoch University stands on Noongar country. We pay our respects to Noongar Elders past and present, appreciating their wisdom and guidance in our teaching and cultural knowledge activities.

At Kulbardi, we strive to encourage increased participation in tertiary education by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Through outreach programs, enabling courses, student support, and scholarships, we aim to provide opportunities for success. Each year, we proudly report the outcomes of our programs to the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, with the report available each May.

Explore our scholarships to discover ones you may be eligible for and experience the inclusive and tech-enabled learning space of Boola Katitjin. We are committed to sustainability and ensuring an environment where everyone can thrive.

We acknowledge that Murdoch University is situated on the lands of the Whadjuk and Binjareb Noongar people. We pay our respects to their enduring and dynamic culture and the leadership of Noongar elders past and present. For thousands of years, the boodjar (country) on which Murdoch University is located has been a place of learning, and we are proud to continue this long tradition.

Join us at the Kulbardi Aboriginal Centre and let us support you on your educational journey. Education is freedom, and together, we can open doors and transform lives.