The Western Sydney First Nations Program 2026 is a culturally grounded initiative provided by Western Sydney University. It allows easy access, retention, and success for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. It is for those who want to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The programme offers financial assistance, mentoring and academic support that will help First Nations students. The application portal is open now till 31 March 2026.
About the Western Sydney First Nations Program
The Western Sydney First Nations Program is a range of scholarships, bursaries, and targeted support services. This aid is targeted at helping solve financial barriers and promote developmental needs for First Nations students. It creates a supportive academic environment based on cultural safety and professional development.
The programme is a collaboration between Indigenous community organisations, elders, and cultural advisors. Their aim is to create educational pathways that fosters culturally responsiveness.
Financial support is awarded as scholarship stipends, living allowances, study cost support, and project‑based awards. Eligible applicants are committed Indigenous students who are intelligent and have connections to the community. Aside from financial benefits, the programme mentors Indigenous staff, provides academic workshops, cultural events, and opportunities to community partners. Students in Western Sydney can use this opportunity to further their educational goals.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: AUD 5,000 per year
- Maximum award: AUD 15,000 total support
- Project duration supported: One to three years
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Who Can Apply for the Western Sydney First Nations Program
Eligible organisation types
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
- Undergraduate students at Western Sydney University
- Postgraduate students
- Applicants with excellent academic commitment
Registration or legal documents
- Proof of Aboriginal
- Torres Strait Islander identity
- Academic transcripts
- Enrolment verification
- Resume
- Personal profile
- Statement of intent
- Personal development plan
Project focus requirements
- Academic goals
- Engagement plan
- Commitment to community
- Cultural leadership
- Alignment of studies with personal, professional
- Readiness to participate in cultural programmes
Geographic eligibility
- Applicants residing in Western Sydney and broader NSW regions
- Enrolled students at Western Sydney University
- Commitment to remain enrolled throughout the support period
- Participation in local cohorts and culturally grounded activities
Sector or thematic focus
- Higher education access and success
- Indigenous leadership
- Community engagement
- Academic achievement
- Research development
- Cultural connection and well‑being
Application Process
- Review eligibility criteria and programme guidelines
- Complete the Western Sydney First Nations Program application form
- Submit supporting documents, including identity verification and academic records
- Participate in any interview or follow‑up process
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Required Materials
- Completed application form
- Proof of Aboriginal
- Proof of Torres Strait Islander identity
- Academic transcripts
- Current enrolment verification
- Personal statement
- Development plan
Key Dates
- Application Starts: 1 March 2026
- Application Ends: 31 March 2026
- Review Timeline: May to June 2026
- Notification of results: 30 June 2026
Selection Notes
- The programme is competitive
- Priority is given to applicants with cultural identity and traditional engagement
- Applicants outside Australia are excluded
Official Source of the Western Sydney First Nations Program
Application Page: https://www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/Western-Sydney-First-Nations-Program