The appointment of Ray Peckham, known as Uncle Ray, has been announced by CSU deputy vice-chancellor Professor Garry Marchant.

Creation of the elder-in-residence position is one of 36 recommendations outlined in CSU's Indigenous Education Strategy, part of the university's commitment to improving Indigenous education outcomes.

"As elder-in-residence, Mr Peckham will help guide Charles Sturt University to achieve its commitment to increase the number of Indigenous students at the university, as well as build its profile on Indigenous research, teaching and learning for all our students," Professor Marchant said.

The university reports Mr Peckham has worked to improve Indigenous conditions and opportunities since the early 1950s when he moved from Dubbo to Sydney.

He joined with Aunty Pearl Gibbs to help reform the Aborigines Progress Association started by Mr William Ferguson in Dubbo in 1937.

Mr Peckham has welcomed his new role as a result of "many years of work by me and many others to ensure equal opportunities for Indigenous people".

"In this role I promote Charles Sturt University as an institution where our culture and protocols are respected and our people can continue their learning journey to share knowledge with all people," he said.

"I offer knowledge, mentoring and support to those in need of assistance, and uphold and share our culture and spirituality for the betterment of our people.

"I act as an adviser to the Charles Sturt University, and welcome and liaise with Indigenous and non-Indigenous students and staff.

"I also attend meetings and events, and travel to various campuses of the university and other institutions as required."

The Dubbo-based Centre for Indigenous Studies is an academic school within CSU's Faculty of Education.

The centre is actively engaged with the Aboriginal community and Indigenous nation groups across the geographical footprint of the university.