Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education

Batchelor Institute of Indigenous Tertiary Education is Australia's only First Nations dual sector tertiary education provider, offering vocational education and training (VET) and research programmes specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Founded in the late 1960s as a small annexe of Kormilda College providing programmes for Aboriginal teacher aides, the Institute relocated to Batchelor township in 1974 and commenced dual sector operations in 1982. The organisation uses a Both Ways approach that combines First Nations and Western knowledge to support meaningful learning and strong futures, with a long-standing commitment to providing culturally safe, industry-relevant education throughout the Northern Territory and across Australia.

Batchelor Institute specialises in vocational education and training across multiple sectors including business, community services, construction, early childhood education and care, education, health, media, conservation and land management, horticulture, resources and infrastructure, language, and visual arts. The Institute also offers research training through its Graduate School, providing a unique Indigenous approach to advanced learning and research practice. Additionally, Batchelor operates the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Programme, the Centre of Excellence for Regional and Remote Essential Care Services, and the Tertiary Enabling Programme to support diverse learner pathways.

Batchelor Institute operates campuses in Batchelor and Alice Springs, serving Indigenous students from across Australia. The organisation is recognised for its commitment to Indigenous learning, community engagement, and research excellence. Students receive comprehensive support including arranged travel to and from workshops, accommodation, and meals for eligible participants. The Institute values the diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander First Nations peoples, maintains a welcoming and culturally safe environment through a code of conduct, and has built a strong reputation for advancing the aspirations of Indigenous peoples through appropriate, industry-relevant tertiary education and research training.