$3.6 million to boost Indigenous-led research

Three University of Queensland projects have received $3.6 million from the Australian Research Council to advance Indigenous-led research in collaboration with communities.  

The Discovery Indigenous scheme aims to strengthen Indigenous research leadership and participation by supporting outstanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers to undertake priority-driven research projects. 

ARC Discovery Indigenous projects 2026 round 1 recipients:  

• Dr Danielle Armour - co-design culturally informed learning models alongside Traditional Owners to support STEM outcomes for Indigenous students.   

• Dr Coen Hird - integrate Indigenous knowledge and science to assess threats to native stingless bees and support Indigenous-led monitoring for conservation, sustainable land management, and ethical research partnerships. 

• Dr Krystal Lockwood - improve First Nations justice models through community-led research and partnership with the Justice Reinvestment Network, to inform national policy and strengthen Indigenous justice frameworks globally.