Apply to gain the support you need to succeed!

The Aboriginal Languages Trust (ALT) has launched its annual Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarship Program to support Aboriginal individuals in undertaking education and training in Aboriginal Languages for the benefit of their Communities and the broader NSW Aboriginal Languages.

• Tier 1 Community and NSW TAFE Study Scholarship: $1,000 - $9,999
• Tier 2 Undergraduate, Graduate Cert & Master’s Scholarship: $10,000 - $24,999 per year
• Tier 3 Research Scholarship: $25,000 - $50,000 per year 

Past participants

Donna Starr and Stephen Norman, two inspiring recipients of the Educational Scholarship Program, are making a significant impact in their communities through Language revitalisation and education. 
  
Donna Starr (Wanarruwa) is pursuing a Masters of Applied Linguistics at Charles Darwin University. ‘The funding has allowed me to explore the linguistic side of our Language, so I can help the Community understand and learn it better,’ says Donna. With the support of the grant, she has been able to balance her studies, job and Community responsibilities, working on phonetics and orthography, and developing the CERT 2 in Wanarruwa. 
  
Stephen Norman (Gumbaynggirr)  is the room leader at an Aboriginal preschool. He has created engaging songs in Language, such as ‘Waaruunga Jaalija’, to teach and inspire his preschool students. ‘The Educational Scholarship has empowered me to bring my vision to life, creating resources that make learning easier and more engaging for children,’ shares Stephen. 
Watch their video >

Purpose

To grow the number of Aboriginal Languages speakers, educators, and teachers across NSW Communities and empower individuals to conduct research that strengthens Language use while respecting Aboriginal ways of knowing, being, and doing with Community control over outcomes.

Key dates 

• Applications open: 9 AM, Monday 15 December 2025
• Applications close: 5 PM, Friday 23 January 2026
• Outcomes notified: mid-February 2026

Project delivery deadlines: 

• Tier 1: Study completed within 12 months (by 30 June 2027)
• Tiers 2 & 3: Completed within 2 years (by 30 June 2028)

How to apply 

1. Read the Program Guidelines for eligibility and requirements
2. Review FAQs for further clarity
3. Submit your application through the SmartyGrants portal.

Apply for the Aboriginal Languages Educational Scholarship Program today and gain the support you need to succeed in your Language learning, teaching and research goals.