Darwin will host the 10th World Archaeological Congress this month, with thousands of delegates coming from more than 70 countries, the organisers have said.

The event is organised by Flinders University and Charles Darwin University’s Northern Institute and it will be held at the latter’s city campus.

Conference academic secretary and Flinders University archaeologist Professor Claire Smith said participants would include archaeologists, heritage professionals, anthropologists, historians, Indigenous leaders and community members from around the globe.

“This significant event offers a remarkable opportunity to bring together leading thinkers to explore and reflect on our shared past, insights vital to shaping our future,” Prof Smith said.

Prof Smith said along with the conference presentations there would also be a series of cultural programs highlighting the diversity of Indigenous Australian cultures, offering attendees the opportunity to learn directly from Aboriginal teachers, artists, and knowledge holders.

Congress deputy academic secretary and CDU Northern Institute research fellow Dr Kellie Pollard said the event was about exchanging culture and knowledge.

“The WAC is an organisation for global collaboration among archaeologists and their cognate disciplines, and each WAC is also about promoting cultural and knowledge exchanges for the benefit of humanity,” Dr Pollard said.

“We’re proud to co-host the WAC-10 on the unceded sovereign country of the Larrakia people, and showcase their unique cultural and archaeological heritage in northern Australia.”

Dr Pollard said attendees would share knowledge on archaeologists’ vital role in heritage protection, and the event would focus on advancing global policies in this area while reflecting on humanity’s shared past.

Professor Smith said she was grateful to the team of about 200 volunteers who would help put the conference on.

“It is estimated that we are generating millions in new tourism income, and a lot of this will go to Aboriginal-owned businesses,” Prof Smith said.

“For Flinders University, the NT holds a special place in our archaeology teaching and research. For over 30 years, our researchers have been helping to uncover the region’s deep and diverse stories – a commitment that continues to this day.”

The conference will take place from June 22 to June 28, and will feature scientific tours that allow attendees to explore sites of archaeological and cultural significance throughout the NT.

For more information and to register, visit the World Archaeological Congress website.