In 2006, the Indigenous Land Corporation purchased the old Redfern Primary School and commenced the development of the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence.

The Indigenous Land Corporation is established as a Commonwealth Authority with land acquisition and land management functions. The ILC’s mandate is to assist Indigenous people to acquire & manage land which will provide them with social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits.

Redfern has long featured as a place of rich cultural significance for Indigenous people. It has been a gathering place for Indigenous people to come together and discuss, create and act on the issues that affect them. Redfern is home to some of Australia’s first Indigenous organisations such as the Aboriginal Legal Service (1970), Aboriginal Medical Service (1971), National Black Theatre (1971), Redfern Aboriginal Land Council (1972) and Aboriginal Housing Company (1973).

The Indigenous Land Corporation decided that Redfern was the ideal location for this landmark project that will deliver benefits to young Indigenous people through the provision of world class facilities and programs that encourage excellence, integrity, inclusiveness and growth.