News

This semester saw the QUT Faculty of Law launch its extended pre-law and justice program for new Indigenous students.

The two-week intensive program, run in partnership with the Oodgeroo Unit, is designed to capacity build Indigenous students to assist with orientation and transition into university.

The law and justice students were given a realistic experience of university study through lectures, academic readings, oral presentations and assignments in a culturally supportive environment. The importance of student resilience and wellbeing is also reinforced throughout the program.

Matthew Connop, who moved from the Northern Territory to study justice at QUT, said that the program gave him a better understanding of what to expect from university as well as helping create new friendships in a new city.

For school-leaver Abbey Gallagher, the program was about gaining confidence in a new environment and developing the skills to succeed in her studies.

Visits to the Magistrates Court (including the Indigenous Sentencing List), Queensland Police Museum, Caxton Legal Centre and a panel discussion with Indigenous graduates, gave the students the opportunity to find out more about future careers in law and justice and to establish professional networks.

Program Coordinator Bianca Hill said the participation of the students was fantastic and they were a credit to their families and communities.