The second edition of a scholarly work which examines the University of Melbourne's troubled and complex historical relationship with Indigenous people was released today.
The book, Dhoombak Goobgoowana: A History of Indigenous Australia and the University of Melbourne, Volume 2: Voice, builds onthe foundation of Volume One: Truth and shifts focus to the emergence of Indigenous leadership, scholarship and collaboration and its impact on the University.
The book is written and edited by Redmond Barry Distinguished Professor Marcia Langton AO, Dr Ross L Jones and Dr James Waghorne and published by Melbourne University Publishing.
Volume 2 brings to light powerful stories of resilience, resistance and reform with contributions from leading Indigenous and non-Indigenous scholars who offer critical insights into the University's evolving relationship with First Nations communities, both on campus and beyond.
From the legacy of Aboriginal student activism to the development of Indigenous-led research and the transformation of collecting practices, Voice marks a significant chapter in the University's commitment to truth-telling.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Emma Johnston AO said the second volume continued the important work of telling the truth about the University of Melbourne' s history and engagement with Indigenous Australians.
"Voice recognises the strength and determination of Indigenous staff, students, artists and community leaders who have shaped and continue to shape the University of Melbourne's future," Professor Johnston said
"The University of Melbourne has a responsibility to confront its history with honesty and accountability. Dhoombak Goobgoowana affirms the central place of Indigenous knowledge and leadership in building a more just and inclusive institution, and sets a standard for truth-telling in Australian higher education.
"We are proud to support this work as part of our commitment to cultural transformation and genuine partnership with Indigenous peoples."
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous) Professor Barry Judd said the second volume was a timely and necessary continuation of the truth-telling process.
"Voice is about who gets to speak, who gets heard, and what it takes to create space for Indigenous leadership in systems not built for us. This volume documents progress, but also calls us to go further," Professor Judd said.
"Through Murmuk Djerring, the University has made a clear and enduring commitment to truth-telling. Dhoombak Goobgoowana reflects this commitment by creating space for Indigenous voices, perspectives and leadership to be recognised and valued. It is both a record of progress and a foundation for ongoing cultural transformation."
The University of Melbourne commissioned the scholarly work to examine the history of the University's relationship with Indigenous people, as part of its commitment to truth telling, which is currently being advanced by the University Truth-telling and Justice Committee.
Volumes One and Two were formally submitted to the Yoorrook Justice Commission, the first formal truth-telling process into injustices experienced by Indigenous people in Victoria.
The University plans to establish a Centre for Truth Telling and Dialogue in early 2026, to support research, teaching and learning addressing issues of truth and justice.
The ebook will be available for free from 12 August 2025 via Melbourne University Publishing and all major ebook providers. The print book will also be available to purchase online and via select retailers from 12 August 2025.
Additional quotes from Editors
Professor Marcia Langton
"Turning the University of Melbourne towards respect for Indigenous knowledge and the contributions of Indigenous staff and students started more than fifty years ago, led by courageous people who were not afraid to speak the truth. Their words echo across history and continue to inspire. Truth-telling today is no less startling and transformative, and it is the voices of the brave who have made it more than ever possible. We who have contributed to the second volume of Dhoombak Goobgoowana are reminded of this history and our obligation to present it to new audiences today."
Dr Ross Jones
"History is written by the victors. Volume 2 of Dhoonbak Goobgoowana, 'Voice', subverts that trope and describes how Indigenous people took themselves out from the anatomy museum, from beneath the microscope and off the walls of galleries and museums, and found their distinctive voice in one of Australia's oldest and most distinguished universities."
Dr James Waghorne
"When did the University of Melbourne embrace the Indigenous voice? Dhoombak Goobgoowana traces a series of beginnings, when academic leaders repudiated race science with growing insistence, when pioneering Indigenous students made the most of their chances, and their allies in student clubs and societies championed their cause, when the first staff broke through, and when the University established partnerships with Indigenous groups beyond its gates. "
"Imperfect, overdue and then often painfully slow, but marked by stories of courage and hope - this is what a history of inclusion looks like."
