The Canberra Institute of Technology’s new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Educational Centre of Excellence opened today.

Yurauna (a Wiradjuri word meaning ‘to grow’) offers culturally appropriate courses in literacy, numeracy and communication and vocational training for First Nations people at the CIT’s Bruce Campus.

The building includes general learning spaces, a dedicated art room, community and student commons areas, quiet and yarning rooms, meeting rooms, staff areas and amenities.

Culturally specific design elements are embedded throughout the facility, including open, light-filled areas to support gathering, storytelling and informal learning, alongside natural materials, screened façades, and landscaped outdoor spaces reflecting connection to Country and community.

CIT CEO Margot McNeill said: “This centre reflects our commitment to culturally safe education, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students feel supported, respected and empowered to succeed.

“CIT Yurauna is a place where culture, learning and community come together, and it’s a privilege to officially open a space that has been designed to support students to grow in confidence, skills and opportunity.”

The design was shaped through co-design workshops with CIT Yurauna and Ngunnawal representatives. Construction was led by the BYCC Alliance, a Supply Nation-registered alliance between BY Group and Construction Control, focused on quality infrastructure and strong Indigenous social outcomes.

Michael Pettersson, Minister for Skills, Training and Industrial Relations, said the facility demonstrates the ACT Government’s commitment to inclusive learnings and preserving culture: “delivering inclusive educational and training facilities to support Canberra’s future, and empowering indigenous communities with the opportunity to gain skills for their chosen careers in a culturally appropriate environment”.