About the programs
Copyright Aurora Project 2012
A range of training and professional development programs are available for new and experienced legal, anthropology and other research staff, field and community liaison officers, management and corporate services staff. The programs cover aspects of native work and the work involved in managing Native Title Representative Bodies and Native Title Service Providers (collectively NTRBs) and their staff. Selected programs may also be useful for representatives from Prescribed Bodies Corporate (PBCs).
Each program provides:
- sessions focused on skills and knowledge that can be applied in the workplace
- useful resources including reference material, practical tools and checklists
- opportunities to share ideas and experiences and build networks among participants, across disciplines, organisations and with expert presenters and panellists.
Programs are funded by the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA). There is no cost to NTRB staff and PBC representatives to attend, although participants’ organisations are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and associated expenses.
Our approach
All Aurora training and PD programs are designed to meet the needs of NTRB staff. This includes the timing, content and facilitation of the programs and is achieved through:
- consultation with NTRB staff and other relevant bodies at all stages of program development
- evaluation of programs to determine their strengths and areas for further improvement and development
- incorporating the feedback we receive from participants attending the programs in to future programs.
Typical activities in our programs include:
- small group work
- scenario based activities
- role plays
- presentations by facilitators addressing key areas of interest with follow-up activities and discussion
- opportunities for sharing experiences and practices among participants from different NTRBs and PBCs.
Attending programs
Who can attend programs?
Programs are developed to meet the specific needs and levels of experience of staff working at NTRBs. Native title programs are available for legal, anthropology and other research staff, field and community liaison officers, management and corporate services staff. Some programs are also suitable for PBC representatives.
Where programs are held?
Programs are mainly offered in Sydney and Perth and where possible Brisbane, Cairns, Adelaide and Melbourne. Travel time and costs for staff are taken into account, as are the number of organisations in a particular location and the ease of access for both participants and presenters.
When are programs available and how to register?
The annual calendar is available in October each year outlining programs, dates and location information for the following year.
What’s expected of participants at programs?
Attendance at the whole program is expected. When registering for programs all participants must agree to a Statement of Commitment that confirms they will:
- attend the entire program
- turn off electronic devices during program sessions.
Regular breaks are scheduled in all programs to allow time to catch up on work. Blackberry time may be available in some programs for participants to check messages and touch base with the office.
Program presenters
Aurora uses a wide range of experts and specialist presenters to assist training and PD staff to develop and deliver high quality, tailored programs.
Continuing Legal Education
Aurora is registered as a Quality Assurance Provider in WA for Continuing Legal Education (CLE). Lawyers in other states should check with the legal practice board for their state.


