Finalists announced for Western Sydney University's Indigenous Centre of Excellence

Four finalist teams have been selected to proceed to the next stage of a competition to design an Indigenous Centre of Excellence at Western Sydney University (WSU).

The finalists teams are:

"The quality of the entries and the overwhelming interest in the competition underscore the significance of this project," said Dillon Kombumerri, chair of competition selection committee. "Designers from around the country recognize the Indigenous Centre of Excellence as a unique opportunity to contribute to First Peoples' education and culture. The selected finalists have demonstrated exceptional potential in shaping this iconic First Nations space."

In stage two of the design competition, teams will develop comprehensive design proposals for the project, to be situated on Dharug land at WSU's Parramatta South campus.

The Indigenous Centre of Excellence is part of the university's strategic aim of fostering and supporting the development of the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

"The Indigenous Centre of Excellence will be a celebration of tens of thousands of years of Indigenous knowledges and histories. It will provide an important space for the community to engage with both the University's and the Western Sydney region's deep connection with Indigenous people," said WSU vice-chancellor Barney Glover.

"It is testament to the University's commitment to advancing Indigenous education, leadership, and engagement, recognixing that we are located on Aboriginal land and that our relationship with Indigenous communities is foundational to who we are as an institution."

The centre to provide opportunities for Indigenous peoples to celebrate culture and connection to Country, as well as connect with First Nations peoples across the world. The centre will be a place of truth-telling, teaching and learning, inter-disciplinary research, creativity and innovation.

"We are thrilled to see such a strong group of finalists who are dedicated to honouring Indigenous knowledges and cultures in their designs," said WSU deputy vice-chancellor Indigenous leadership, Michelle Trudgett. "This project is a beacon of Indigenous excellence, and these finalists will play a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life."

The winning team and design is expected to be revealed at the end of 2023.