AIATSIS and the Support of Indigenous Studies

20 November 2006

Steve Larkin

Steve Larkin, Principal, Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), explores the unique role of AIATSIS in promoting scholarship that has been relevant and responsive to its national Indigenous constituency.

The interaction between the Institute and ANU has resulted in many new initiatives and collaborations that have promoted the wellbeing of Indigenous Australians. In recognition of this the two institutions are about to formalise a Memorandum of Understanding.

Broad Topics: Arts and Social Sciences

Sub-topics: Indigenous Studies, Policy & Political Science, Society & Culture

Areas: University

A Kungarakany man from Darwin, Steve Larkin has been the Principal of AIATSIS since June 2004. Prior to this, Mr Larkin acted as Principal for nine months and was Deputy Principal for two and a half years. Mr Larkin has also been Adjunct Associate Professor in Indigenous Health at James Cook University since 2002.

He spent more than 17 years working in health and community development programs in Aboriginal communities throughout the Northern Territory. Mr Larkin’s previous positions include National Aboriginal Health Adviser to the Australian Medical Association, inaugural CEO of the Secretariat of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Assistant Secretary in the Commonwealth Office of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, and managing the national Indigenous Employment Program within the Department of Employment, Workplace Relations and Small Business.

Part of the 2006 Toyota-ANU Public Lecture Series