The University of Western Australia will next week welcome more than 500 Indigenous student athletes representing 32 universities and tertiary institutions from around Australia to compete in this year’s UniSport Australia Indigenous Nationals.

UWA is partnering with UniSport Australia, UWA Sport and the UWA School of Indigenous Studies to host the 29th Indigenous Nationals from June 23 to 27 on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar.

Situated next to the Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River), UWA’s Crawley campus sits on a place of gathering and learning that spans tens of thousands of years.

The student athletes will compete in basketball, netball, touch rugby and volleyball, transforming UWA and its surrounds into a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the rich sporting traditions and contemporary achievements of Indigenous Australia.

The tournament will kick off with a spectacular opening ceremony at UWA’s Winthrop Hall on Monday 23 June, featuring a traditional Welcome to Country, dynamic dance performances, and the creation of a collaborative sand mural that honours Whadjuk Noongar artistry and storytelling.

Throughout the five days of competition, participants will also engage in cultural exchange, storytelling, and community building – fostering friendships and connections that extend far beyond the playing fields.

Mid-week, all athletes are invited to “Deadly on the Mic” – a comedy night at Optus Stadium where aspiring Indigenous comedians will share stories, jokes and song in an informal, cabaret-style atmosphere, providing an opportunity for all students to get together and forge new friendships.

Kristina Mitsikas, UWA Sport’s Senior Manager – Inclusion and Innovation, said the University was honoured to host the 2025 Indigenous Nationals on Whadjuk Country.

“This event is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of culture, community and the achievements of Indigenous student athletes,” Ms Mitsikas said.

UWA Sport General Manager Jake Wilkins said UWA Sport was delighted to provide Indigenous student athletes with the opportunity to compete and represent their culture.

UWA will field two Maaliwah teams at this year’s Indigenous Nationals. Since first joining the event as one of the first university teams outside New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, UWA Maaliwah has captured seven championships and finished runner-up six times, cementing its status as one of the competition’s most successful participants.

For more information on the 29th Indigenous Nationals, including schedules, fixtures and cultural programming, visit the UniSport Australia website.