South Australia reaches parity in Indigenous Year 12 graduation rates
South Australia achieved population parity in Indigenous Year 12 graduation rates in 2025. This rate was nearly ten times higher than more than 25 years ago.
When the author finished secondary school more than 25 years ago, she was one of only 50 Indigenous students. These 50 students were across South Australia and the Northern Territory who had completed Year 12.
Her community gathered at Adelaide Festival Centre to celebrate this milestone. Today, South Australia has achieved population parity in Indigenous Year 12 graduation rates.
This marks dramatic educational progress. Indigenous tertiary enrolments are growing steadily.
In 1976, fewer than 78 Indigenous Australians held any tertiary degree. Now approximately 50,690 Indigenous Australians aged 25 to 34 hold qualifications.
Yet barriers remain. Many Indigenous students and staff say universities still exclude Indigenous perspectives from teaching and research.
Western knowledge frameworks still dominate.
- 2025
- Year parity achieved
- 50,690
- Indigenous tertiary holders, age 25-34
- 50 across SA and NT
- Year 12 completions at start
- Fewer than 78
- Tertiary degree holders in 1976
Why it mattersEducational progress alone does not guarantee equity. Equity requires that curricula and research agendas include non-Western perspectives. Right now they remain dominated by non-Indigenous perspectives. This leaves out Indigenous knowledge systems.
AustraliaAustralian universities are increasingly enrolling Indigenous students and staff, but must address how Indigenous knowledge is valued and taught across all disciplines.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
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