New scholarship program to support First Nations students

July 29, 2026

Charles Darwin University in Darwin is to invest up to $2 million in new Higher Degree by Research (HDR) scholarship initiatives designed to strengthen pathways, participation and success for First Nations researchers.

The initiative introduces a new First Nations Scholarship that supports eligible students to undertake a Master by Research as a pathway to PhD studies, increases PhD stipends to $53,000 annually for four years, and provides additional allowances for costs associated with First Nations research, including travel, community engagement and participant reimbursements.

Strengthening Indigenous-led research

Deputy Vice-Chancellor First Nations Leadership Professor Ruth Wallace said the investment reflects CDU’s commitment to growing First Nations research capability and supporting researchers to lead change in their communities.

Funded through the Australian Government’s Research Training Program, the initiative is expected to increase First Nations HDR enrolments, improve completion rates and strengthen Indigenous-led research across the University.

This investment aligns with CDU’s strategic commitment to First Nations leadership and developing the next generation of researchers and academic leaders.

Enquiries for the First Nations HDR scholarships can go to research.degrees@cdu.edu.au with subject “First Nations HDR Scholarship”

See the scholarships CDU has to offer: http://go.cdu.edu.au/f7ea

Peter Rowe

Peter Rowe leads First Nations News as Editor, with over three decades of experience across international newsrooms, digital platforms and media strategy roles. For the past 20 years, he’s worked in Australia – reporting, editing and advising on stories that shape public debate.