CENTRAL AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST
INDEPENDENT ABORIGINAL ADULT
EDUCATION INSTITUTION

Welcome to IAD

The Institute for Aboriginal Development (IAD) is the oldest non-profit independent Aboriginal adult education institution in Central Australia. IAD was established in 1969 to create a vibrant, cross-cultural adult education and training centre that serves and empowers people across Central Australia.

Through its dedicated programs, IAD equips participants with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to shape their futures, celebrate their heritage, and lead positive change within their communities.

Our Story

IAD was established by the Uniting Church in 1969 by the late Rev Jim Downing and the late Yami Lester OAM, to assist community development for Aboriginal people and provide cross-cultural education between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal society.

From these humble beginnings IAD grew into a fully Aboriginal-owned and controlled organization, dedicated to providing language, cultural and educational services to benefit the Aboriginal people of Central Australia.

IAD empowers participants with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to shape their futures, celebrate their heritage, and lead positive change within their communities.

Our Achievements

IAD is proud of what has been accomplished over the last 55 years, including:

  • Established the first formal Aboriginal Interpreting service in Australia (1983)

  • Established IAD Press, Australia’s oldest Indigenous publishing house, in the 1970s.

  • Many of IAD’s graduates have gone on to play key roles in many iconic organisations that benefit our community today such as the Aboriginal Interpreter Service, Congress health clinics, CAAMA radio, Imparja Television, Yipirinya School, and Central Land Council.

These milestones reflect IAD’s ongoing commitment to empowering communities and preserving Aboriginal culture through education, media, and leadership.

Join us in supporting a vibrant future where culture and education walk hand in hand.

Our Mission

To embed Aboriginal languages and cultures in the life of Central Australia through educational programs and publications.

Our Vision

  • Strong Culture

  • Strong People

  • Strong Future

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