The Djiman Research Centre (the Centre) is responsible for coordinating all Gugu Badhun research activities, including engagement, strategy, methods, ethics and protocols. Djiman Research Committee is responsible for the governance and decision-making regarding the Centre’s research activities.

Gugu Badhun people, like all Indigenous peoples, are amongst the oldest researchers in the world conducting research into all aspects of life for survival, to gain and build on existing knowledge and to discover new knowledge. This included research that resulted in inventions, innovation and the development of unique knowledge systems in the areas of science, physics, engineering, medicine, astronomy, agriculture, aquaculture, anthropology and the arts, as examples. Evidence of this research has been handed down through generations in the oral form and has informed our values and beliefs; our practices and our knowledge systems and is also evident in a variety of physical forms found on our traditional land.

In contemporary society, Gugu Badhun people continue to play a major role in the field of research as participants, researchers, primary and chief investigators on projects, research partners, mentors, brokers and advisors. Gugu Badun researchers, through their various roles, have also played a significant part in national reform in the field of Indigenous research in relation to establishing ethical standards, research priorities, strategic direction and knowledge translation.

The Gugu Badhun people look forward to continued engagement with existing collaborators and partners and engagement with new collaborators and partners. Our philosophy is based on establishing strong and sustainable relationships, respect for different world views, and a two-way process of building and/or strengthening the capacity of Gugu Badhun people and those with whom we work. We welcome the opportunity to work with and support undergraduate projects and Honors, Masters and PhD students who have an interest in conducting research to assist Gugu Badhun people to achieve our aspirations and/or more broadly that of Indigenous peoples.

To objective of the Centre is to engage in research which:

• Respects the Gugu Badhun history, culture, values and knowledge systems.

• Addresses the Gugu Badhun priorities, is ethical and meaningful with sustainable outcomes.

• Focuses on benefit for Gugu Badhun people.

• Strengthens research capacity for Gugu Badhun people and external stakeholders.

• Has strategies in place for research knowledge translation.

• Provides an evidence base to inform decision making and/or assist Gugu Badhun people in achieving their aspirations.

If you are interested in working with the Gugu Badhun Djiman Research Centre or would like more information, please contact us through our email: admin@gbac-rntbc.org.au.