Welcome to the Institute for Aboriginal Development (IAD).

My father, Yami Lester, co-founded IAD in 1969 with Reverend Jim Downing of the Uniting Church. I grew up with IAD and hold a deep belief in its founding vision: an Aboriginal-owned and operated organisation dedicated to language, culture, and education. This vision continues to guide IAD’s mission and goals.

IAD was established to serve Aboriginal people from all language groups throughout Central Australia. Today, language and culture remain vibrant and essential, and IAD invites everyone to share their unique cultural insights and lived experiences. This collective knowledge supports IAD in providing meaningful and impactful services.

The most valuable asset IAD holds is the intellectual property (IP) generously shared by Aboriginal people—made accessible with support from editors, linguists, illustrators, designers, researchers, and others. IAD is committed to ensuring that Aboriginal people, as the rightful holders of this IP, are at the centre of producing, updating, and sharing their knowledge. Strengthening Aboriginal control over IP creates broader opportunities and deepens community empowerment.

IAD now enters an exciting new phase, collaborating closely with other Aboriginal owned and operated organisations and community members across Central Australia.

Your contribution is welcomed with heartfelt gratitude and respect.

Karina Lester
Chairperson