Pathways
Local First Nations Education Information
Further Education & Early Career
In the Warrnambool-Moyne region there are two main further education pathways for students who would like to stay local to continue studying or to gain a qualification. Both Deakin University and SouthWest TAFE offer a range of supports and scholarships for First Nations students, and have their own First Nations team to assist students transitioning from secondary education.
Deakin University
Deakin Warrnambool offer a range of courses and on-campus accommodation. Deakin also support students to tailor their study in ways that can support them to stay in their own communities.
Although based at Waurn Ponds campus, Deakin’s National Indigenous Knowledges Education Research Innovation (NIKERI) Institute can support First Nations students on all campuses as they navigate the university application process. The team at NIKERI can help students define their course choices, provide information about university life and opportunities, and provide information about scholarships available to First Nations students. NIKERI Institute also offers a range of courses — those applying to study through the Institute can apply to take part in the NIKERI Indigenous Direct Admissions Program.
For Deakin Scholarships contact NIKERI Institute about:
- Indigenous Higher Education Scholarship valued at $4,000
- Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Scholarship — covers 100% tuition
- HEPPP Retention and Support Scholarship valued at $4,000
- Dr (Aunty) Mary Atkinson Scholarship — covers 100% tuition fees [must be enrolled at NIKERI in Bachelor of Nursing or Bachelor of Early Years or Primary]
- AND MORE!
SouthWest TAFE
SouthWest TAFE have campuses in Warrnambool, Portland, Hamilton, and Colac, as well as a range of other training facilities. SWTAFE have their own First Nations Student Support Officers and offer scholarships and programs for First Nations students. There are over 150 courses on offer including VCE and General Education. Qualifications range from trade certification to diploma, and many courses are now government-funded.
SWTAFE Scholarships include:
- Aunty Laura Bell Scholarship valued at $2,000
- Uncle Rob Lowe Scholarship valued at $2,000
- First Nations Scholarship valued at $800
- AND MORE!
Career and Employment Support
Worn Gundidj Employment Services provide job readiness training, career counselling, and have a wide network of employers committed to inclusive hiring practices.
Koorie Careers and Aspirations Day and Koorie Big Day Out are great opportunities for students from Yr 9-12 to explore career and university options. See our Year 10-12 page for more details about these events.
More information about scholarships, career and financial support can be found on the Further Resources for Educators page.
