Accessing ancestral lands is fundamental to Indigenous identity and knowledge systems in Australia. However, physical distance, mobility challenges, and economic barriers often prevent community members from visiting sites of cultural significance. To address this, The University of Western Australia has pioneered a virtual reality (VR) initiative designed to bridge this gap, offering a digital pathway to cultural connection and education.
Preserving Indigenous Knowledge Through Digital Innovation
Indigenous knowledge is deeply intertwined with the natural environment. It is a system of understanding passed down through generations by observing the land, the stars, and the seasonal availability of resources. This knowledge, embedded in language, kinship, and Dreaming stories, is traditionally learned by being physically present on Country.
Recognizing that on-site learning is not always feasible, researchers at The University of Western Australia have developed the 360 On-Country tool. This VR application allows users to experience Country remotely, providing an immersive educational resource for students and a therapeutic tool for Elders.
Developing the 360 On-Country Experience
The project originated during the COVID-19 lockdowns, which forced a rapid shift from face-to-face teaching to online delivery. Kevin Taylor, a coordinator at UWA, collaborated with Elder Len Collard to adapt a unit that relied heavily on on-Country learning. The solution lay in virtual reality.
The development process was a collaborative effort. Taylor worked with Menang woman and academic Shandell Cummings, whose family provided access to culturally significant sites in Kinjarling (Albany). Using a 360-degree video camera, the team filmed a first-person tour of Quaranup (Point Possession), capturing petroglyphs, lizard traps, and waterholes. The footage was then edited to create an immersive VR experience that brings these sites to the user.
Impact on Students and Cultural Education
Initial feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive. The immersive nature of the VR tool allows for a deeper connection to the land, even from a distance. One student noted, “The VR made me feel like I was really on Country, helping me connect with the land and its cultural meaning.”
While students still prioritize physical visits to Country, the 360 On-Country tool serves as a powerful supplement. It offers a respectful and engaging way to learn about Indigenous stories and traditions, reinforcing the strong connection between people, culture, and the environment.
Connecting Elders to Country
Beyond the classroom, the VR tool holds significant potential for aged care. A 2023 study highlighted that the ability to connect with Country is a primary unmet need for Indigenous Elders in urban settings. For those unable to travel due to health or mobility issues, VR offers a vital link to their heritage.
In end-of-life care, the desire to return to Country is a profound and common wish. Virtual reality can provide a sense of homecoming and cultural therapy, allowing Elders to revisit significant places in their final days. This application represents a compassionate use of technology to support cultural and emotional well-being.
Explore Further
The University of Western Australia continues to lead in research that integrates technology with cultural preservation. To learn more about how UWA is supporting Indigenous communities and advancing digital humanities, explore our research strengths.
If you are interested in studying fields that combine technology, culture, and social impact, discover the courses available at UWA.
For those looking to contribute to projects like this, consider supporting Indigenous research initiatives through the university.
Join the Conversation
How can virtual reality be used to preserve and share other forms of cultural knowledge? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
