Inaugural First Nations Scholarship launched | Natural Hazards Research Australia

Inaugural First Nations Scholarship launched

Photo: Kay Haynes
Release date

30 September 2025

La Trobe University and Natural Hazards Research Australia launch First Nations Research Scholarship. 

Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students pursuing research in disaster resilience and preparedness, Natural Hazards Research Australia (the Centre) in partnership with La Trobe University launched the inaugural First Nations Research Scholarship. 

The scholarship is open to students undertaking a PhD, Masters, Graduate Diploma, or Honours program at La Trobe, with projects aligned to the Centre’s mission of enhancing Australia’s resilience and reducing disaster risk. 

Jointly funded and administered by La Trobe and the Centre, the program offers up to four years of support for PhD candidates and aims to foster Indigenous-led research that makes a real difference for communities and Country. 

Prof Julie Andrews, Director of La Trobe’s Gabra Biik Wurruwila Wutja Indigenous Research Centre, said the scholarship is a vital step in amplifying Indigenous voices in disaster research.  

“This scholarship not only supports academic excellence but also recognises Indigenous leadership in addressing the challenges of natural hazards and climate resilience,” Prof Andrews said. 

To be eligible, applicants must: 

  • Have a confirmed supervisor and research project aligned with the Centre’s focus areas 

  • Meet the enrolment criteria for their chosen course at La Trobe University. 

Indigenous students with a passion for research and community impact are encouraged to apply. 

Applications close 31 October 2025.

Learn more: https://www.latrobe.edu.au/news/announcements/2025/first-nations-research-scholarship-launched