As Australia’s newest university, Adelaide University has bold ambitions for excellence and equity, underpinned by an unwavering commitment to First Nations people characterised by meaningful action.
Central to this vision is the creation of a new First Nations Ambassador role – a senior position designed to strengthen connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, champion participation in education and ensure First Nations voices help shape the University’s future.
Today, Adelaide University announces respected Aboriginal leader and education advocate Adam Goodes as the inaugural appointee.
A proud Adnyamathanha/Narrunga man born in Wallaroo, Goodes has dedicated his career to empowering young First Nations people through education, cultural strength and the celebration of Aboriginal excellence.
Passionate about the power of education and the opportunities it creates for future generations, Goodes said he was honoured by the opportunity.
“To be associated with an incredible university back home on my home Country is something I'm really excited about, but more importantly, this role is focused on education,” Goodes said.
“I was lucky to be blessed with an education; with a good education, anything is possible.
“Through Adelaide University I want to show my First Nations brothers and sisters that education is a real option, and that the doors here are wide open and welcoming.
“I want to make sure education continues to be a priority for First Nations students, and they know that there is an incredible network of people here who can help them thrive and shine.”
Goodes has a long-standing passion for education. As Founder of the GO Foundation, he creates educational and cultural opportunities for Indigenous students to reach their full potential, and as a Director of the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation, he helps First Nations and marginalised communities gain vital language, literacy and communication skills.
Australian of the Year, multiple honorary doctorate holder – including one from Adelaide University’s antecedent institution, the University of South Australia – and a dual Brownlow medallist and former AFL champion, Goodes is widely recognised for his advocacy for Indigenous rights, anti-racism efforts and community service.
Deputy Vice Chancellor – Indigenous Professor Steve Larkin said Adelaide University’s commitment to equity and First Nations success is being realised through meaningful action.
“As Australia’s first university to be gifted an Aboriginal name – Tirkangkaku (Place of Learning) – enshrined in our founding legislation, we carry a profound responsibility. Through this name, the Kaurna People have placed their trust in us, and we are determined to honour that trust through our actions,” Professor Larkin said.
“We are determined to become a university of choice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and that means backing our commitments with real action.
“Adam Goodes’ appointment to the First Nations Ambassador position demonstrates our commitment to genuine partnership and ensuring First Nations voices are heard at every level of the University.”
Vice Chancellor Professor Nicola Phillips said the appointment reflects Adelaide University’s broader vision for a new kind of institution grounded in purpose and partnership.
“Adelaide University is not simply a new university – we are a new kind of university, created with purpose and a deep responsibility to expand opportunity and serve all our communities,” Prof Phillips said.
“Adam Goodes’ appointment as our inaugural First Nations Ambassador reflects our commitment to work in genuine partnership with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from the very beginning.
“Adam brings a lifetime of leadership, advocacy and a deep commitment to education that aligns powerfully with our vision for Adelaide University.
“He is a respected voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and an inspiring role model for young people. We are honoured he has agreed to serve as our inaugural First Nations Ambassador.”
As the first person to hold this role, Goodes will act as a powerful bridge between Adelaide University and First Nations communities, amplifying voices, inspiring students and helping ensure the institution grows in ways that reflect First Nations knowledge, culture and aspirations.
“Throughout my life, I’ve experienced a lot of firsts,” Goodes said.
“I was part of the first generation born off Point Pearce Mission, the first in my immediate family to finish high school and the first to buy a home.
“Education has always been at the heart of those firsts.
“My people did not always have access to education, so as someone who has benefited from it, I look forward to giving back to my brothers and sisters in South Australia and most importantly, to those who are choosing education and Adelaide University as a way forward in their lives.
“You don't have to wait for others to be the first – you can step forward and be that first yourself.”
Note to editors:
Scheduled interviews with Adam Goodes, Prof Steve Larkin and Prof Nicola Phillips can be arranged.
Photos available.
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Media contact:
Annabel Mansfield, Senior Media Adviser Adelaide University.
T: +61 479 182 489
E: Annabel.Mansfield@adelaide.edu.au