Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Theory and Practice
Build the skills to lead research that strengthens Community.
COURSE CODE
11037NAT
At a glance
Duration
12 months
(3 days per month)
Class type
Face-to-face classes three days per month from 9am-5pm.
Enrolling on behalf of your team?
Course Overview
Research has the power to change lives – and Mob-led research changes them on our own terms.

The Certificate IV in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research Theory and Practice is your pathway into ethical, culturally safe research grounded in First Peoples ways of knowing, being and doing.
Developed by Lowitja Institute and OCHRe and delivered by Yagilaith Djerring, this course is designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to strengthen their skills in research and evaluation – or take their first steps toward a career in research.
Over 12 months, you’ll blend face-to-face workshops, online learning and Community-based projects to build practical, real-world skills you can apply in your own Community and workplace.
Who is this course deadly for?:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who want to strengthen their skills in research and evaluation, including those working in:
- Research and Evaluation Roles
- Community Health and Wellbeing
- Policy and Program Development
This course is ideal for those taking their first steps toward a career in research or looking to build on existing Community-based experience with formal research skills..
Course Details
How you will learn
This course combines classroom learning with real-world experience:
- Face-to-face and online training (3 days per month)
- Workplace and Community-based training
- Practical assessments and reflective learning tasks
Work placement
No work placement is required. However, for some assessments you may need to complete tasks or demonstrate skills at a workplace.
Further study pathways
This course can open doors to further study – including undergraduate and enabling programs in health, community services, social sciences, public health, and Indigenous research.
It’s also a strong foundation for future research-focused qualifications, subject to each institution’s entry requirements.
Assessment methods may include:
- Questionnaires
- Case studies
- Research project
- Literature review
- Reflective practice
Learning outcomes
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:
- use research methods and practices in an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander context
- undertake ethical research with a strong foundation in co-design
- engage meaningfully with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- ensure culturally safe practice
- provide research support with a clear Community focus.
Course fees
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Victoria can access the Aboriginal access fee waiver – no tuition fees required.
Travel and accommodation costs may be subsidised through the AbStudy funding program if you’re eligible.
See Yagilaith Djerring Course Fees for more information.
Course Structure
This course includes seven units of competency:
Core Units
CORE UNIT NAME
CORE UNIT CODE
- Use research outcomes to support organisational and community change NAT11037001
- Conduct a literature review for research NAT11037002
- Research community health HLTARES003
- Interact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisation members and the community BSBFNG402
- Work legally and ethically CHCLEG001
- Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety CHCDIV002
- Secure and manage funding CHCMGT004
Why study at Yagilaith Djerring?

Self-determined
training
Training is co-designed with ACCOs and the Aboriginal health sector to ensure your learning is connected to current sector needs.
Expert
educators
Subject matter experts with current industry experience and Community leaders will shape your learning.
Support every
step of the way
A dedicated support team will walk with you throughout your journey – from enrolment to graduation.
Culturally safe
learning
Training that respect and reflects your cultural identity and lived experience.
Entry Requirements
All applicants must meet the following entry requirements specific to VACCHO:
All applicants must meet the following entry requirements specific to VACCHO:
- be 18 years or older at the time of enrolment
- have recent volunteer or paid experience working in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- complete a Learning, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital (LLND) skills assessment and Pre-Training Review (PTR) to assess your suitability, leadership readiness, and workplace access requirements
- be working, or beginning to work, in a research context
- Research project activities will be undertaken through your workplace or Community connections.
If you’ve completed similar units or gained relevant skills through work or study, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or Credit Transfer. Our team can guide you through this process during enrolment.
This training is delivered under the Skills First Program and may be free for eligible students.
Eligibility is assessed individually before enrolment, and tuition fees may vary depending on your circumstances.
Additional Information
VACCHO (RTO No. 20739) is responsible for the quality of training, assessment and the issuing of nationally recognised certification.
Completion of this course does not guarantee employment.
VACCHO supports inclusive education and welcomes learners from all backgrounds, including people with a disability.
Ready to lead research for Community?
Register your interest today and take the first step towards ethical, Mob-led research grounded in Culture, connection and Community.
