Pathways
Local First Nations Education Information
Year 10-12
Students in years 10-12 are making decisions about their future. There are a range of programs and organisations to help you navigate any hurdles you may face, and to provide information, support, and opportunities.
The Victorian Department of Education Koorie Engagement Support Officers (KESOs) continue to support students through their final years of schooling. The KESOs can also help you prepare for opportunities beyond secondary school.
Special Events
Among the range of supports provided by the KESOs is a new program created in partnership with local philanthropic organisations and service providers:
- Koorie Careers and Aspirations Day – launched in 2024, the Koorie Careers and Aspirations Day brings together a diverse range of employers, educators, and careers advisors, to showcase opportunities for First Nations students and to help you explore various pathways. The program includes presentations by inspiring First Nations community leaders and focuses on employers who provide a culturally safe work environment.
Also check out the Koorie Big Day Out – presented by Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Inc. KBDO is a day for students from Yr 9 – 12 to explore Victorian university options and to meet with university Indigenous Education Units.
Academies
Year 10-12 students can also apply to Clontarf Academy, Koorie Academy of Excellence, and Stars Foundation. Each of these programs have local program coordinators who can visit schools, run programs and assist with the application process. For more information visit their websites or contact through your school.
Scholarships and Financial Support
The Public Education Foundation and a number of philanthropic organisations have a wide range of scholarships available to students F-12 enrolled in government schools. The Public Education Foundation list their available scholarships during open scholarship cycles, please visit their website directly for further information and application rounds.
The State and Federal Governments also provide a range of scholarships such as:
- Marrung Scholarships – available to students in Yr 10 to complete Yr 11 & 12
- Victorian Department of Education Student Scholarships
VET Course
In 2025 SWTAFE launched a new program in partnership with Eastern Maar Aboriginal Corporation (EMAC) and Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, with additional support from Worn Gundidj and Winda Mara Aboriginal Corporation. The Certificate II in Conservation and Ecosystem Management is a VET course and part of South West Victoria’s Future Land Guardians Project. Contact SWTAFE directly to find out more.
Youth Representation
Koorie Youth Council – The KYC is a dedicated representative organisation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people in policy and advocacy. Members of the youth council are aged 16-27 and can apply directly through their website.
Community Support and Programs
Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative Ltd.
- Koornong Maarr (ages 13-18) – social group for First Nations young people focused on cultural learnings and wellbeing. Includes camps and excursions and runs throughout school holidays.
Visit Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative for more information and upcoming events.
Kirrae Health Service
- Ready for learning [The Koori Way] – Held in January before the school year begins, a full day event with activities and a 3×3 basketball competition.
- Koko Blokes (ages 7-17) – Koko is a Kirrae Whurrong word meaning younger brother. The boys get together each week and participate in fun fitness activities, camps, cultural activities, dance and more.
- Kalat Girls (ages 12-25) – Kalat is a Kirrae Whurrong word meaning eldest sister. The girls get together and participate in fun fitness activities, craft activities, cultural activities, and more.
- School Holiday Programs – Weekly during school holidays, including sport, physical fitness, art, music, craft, culture, cooking and more. A program of activities is released before each holiday period.
Visit Kirrae Health Service for more information.
- Sacred Tiddas Women’s Group – a supported social group focused on cultural strengthening and healing. Young women welcome.
- Worn Gundidj Men’s Group – a supported social group focused on cultural strengthening and healing. Young men welcome.
Financial Support
ABSTUDY – First Nations students may be eligible for Abstudy from Yr 7-12, and while completing an apprenticeship or further education.
