3162 - TRANSFORMING AUSTRALIAN PSYCHOLOGY THROUGH INDIGENOUS LEADERSHIP AND RELATIONALITY: EXAMPLES FROM THE AUSTRALIAN INDIGENOUS PSYCHOLOGY EDUCATION PROJECT

Session: 3158 - WALKING IN THE STEPS OF OUR ANCESTORS: REIMAGINING INDIGENOUS PSYCHOLOGY ACROSS THE GLOBE
AUTHORS:
Dudgeon Patricia (University of Western Australia ~ Perth ~ Australia) , Selkirk Belle (University of Western Australia ~ Perth ~ Australia)
Abstract text:
Indigenous psychology is a global decolonising movement that challenges the dominance of Western paradigms by privileging Indigenous worldviews and knowledge systems. In Australia, this movement is being led by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander psychologists who are reshaping psychology education and practice as a matter of epistemic justice and health equity. Central to this transformation is the Australian Indigenous Psychology Education Project (AIPEP), an Indigenous-led initiative committed to increasing Indigenous representation in psychology higher education and the workforce. AIPEP applies culturally grounded methodologies and decolonising theory to practice, affirming Indigenous knowledge systems and relational values such as respect, reciprocity, and responsibility. AIPEP is influencing transformational change at all levels from national policy and regulation, to organisational and service delivery, to individual learning journeys. One key initiative that exemplifies multi-level transformational change is the AIPEP Community of Practice, a national collective of psychology university educators who share a commitment to decolonising and Indigenising psychology curricula, building cultural responsiveness, and supporting the success of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander psychology students. This presentation will outline the principles and practices underpinning AIPEP, highlight critical outcomes and innovations, and reflect on personal and professional experiences of facilitating this national movement. We also address ongoing challenges and future directions necessary for sustaining the momentum of decolonising psychology in Australia.