The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (ATSIS) Unit 40th Anniversary
Welcome
Since its opening in 1984 and official launch in 1985, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (ATSIS) Unit has been a place of emergence, family, and connection. For over four decades, it has supported thousands of students, driven cultural change, and built a strong community. In 2025, we celebrated this milestone through anniversary events and sharing the stories and legacies that continue to shape our future.
Anniversary Celebrations
The UQ community came together to celebrate 40 years of the ATSIS Unit at various events.
ATSIS Unit Gatton Grand Opening
The official opening of the new ATSIS Unit at UQ Gatton took place on Tuesday, 5 August 2025 with staff and students enjoying the new space over complimentary lunch and live music.
Afternoon at the Amphitheatre
Students, staff and other community spent a relaxed afternoon at the Mary Mahoney Amphitheatre on Friday, 8 August. It was a chance to connect and unwind over food, drinks, and cultural arts and crafts.
ATSIS Unit 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner
Members of the ATSIS Unit community, including students, staff, alumni, and donors came together for a memorable celebration showcasing the people and their stories that have made the ATSIS Unit what it is today.
A place of emergence
The ATSIS Unit was born out of advocacy and activism. In the early 1980s, UQ students and community leaders called for greater cultural safety and Indigenous student support.
Launched as the Enclave Program in 1984, the Unit grew into a space where Indigenous students were seen, supported and empowered.
Pictured: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit staff and students, 4 November 1985.
© The University of Queensland, 1985. Courtesy of the University Archives.
A place for family and connection
The ATSIS Unit has always been more than an academic space — it’s been a second home. From InspireU to Goorie Berrimpa to shared moments in the common room, it’s a place to connect with mob, feel a sense of belonging and build lifelong connections.
A place for the future
The future of Indigenous leadership is already here. The ATSIS Unit continues to nurture students into researchers, educators and trailblazers who are shaping what’s next. From Higher Degree by Research candidates to aspiring academics and professionals — our future is already being written.
Different journeys, one moment
Contact
For more information about 40th anniversary events, please email Indigenousengagementevents@uq.edu.au