CSIRO has committed $1.5 million to create pathways to enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to pursue careers in STEM and play a leading role in Australia’s energy transition.
The CSIRO Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Energy Transition Scholarship works to strengthen the pipeline of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander talent and support greater Indigenous participation in Australia’s future science and technology workforce.
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Under the partnership, two students each year will receive scholarships valued at $15,000 annually for up to five years, providing a total scholarship value of up to $75,000 per student.
CSIRO energy director Dr Dietmar Tourbier said the scholarship was established to help remove barriers to education and encourage greater Indigenous participation in the STEM and energy sector.
“CSIRO is delighted to partner with the University of Newcastle to support outcomes that continue future STEM opportunities for Indigenous students,” Dr Tourbier said.
“By supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to develop skills in energy, science, technology and engineering, our shared aim is to open additional pathways into careers that will continue to attract more talent and drive Australia’s clean energy transition and future prosperity.”
The scholarship will help address the representation gap in STEM education and careers, creating more opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to contribute to Australia’ scientific and technology future.
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Applications for the scholarship will remain open until March 2027.
