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 them navigate any hurdles they 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 students to prepare for opportunities beyond secondary school.
Special Events
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 them explore various pathways. The program includes presentations by inspiring First Nations community leaders and focuses on employers who provide a culturally safe work environment.
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.
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 on these programs visit our Years 7-9 page, or the Further Resources for Educators page.
Scholarships and Financial Support
The Public Education Foundation and a number of philanthropic organisations have a wide range of scholarships available to students K-12 enrolled in government schools. 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
First Nations students may also be eligible for ABSTUDY from Yr 7-12, and while completing an apprenticeship or further education. Applications are through Services Australia.
More information about scholarships and financial support can be found on the Further Resources for Educators page.
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 Windamara 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 to find out more.
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 Programs
Gunditjmara Aboriginal Cooperative Ltd. Koornong Maar (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.
- 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 each week 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.
- 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.
Information about the above organisations can be found on the Further Resources for Educators page.
