1. Overview
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Sporting & Creative Arts Scholarships support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who demonstrate talent, dedication, and passion in sport, performing arts, visual arts, music, dance, or creative industries.
These scholarships recognise that sport and creative expression are powerful pathways for personal growth, cultural identity, community leadership, and career development. The program supports individuals striving to develop their skills, represent their communities, and pursue opportunities that may otherwise be financially out of reach.
Through practical support, mentoring, and development opportunities, the Foundation aims to nurture talent, celebrate cultural creativity, and empower individuals to achieve their full potential.
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GUIDELINES & FORMS
2. What Support Is Available?
The Sporting & Creative Arts Scholarships provide flexible support to assist recipients in pursuing development opportunities, training, competitions, or artistic growth.
Support may include:
• Sporting or artistic equipment and materials
• Participation fees for competitions, exhibitions, or performances
• Training, coaching, or professional development programs
• Travel and accommodation support for competitions, tournaments, or performances
• Mentoring opportunities with experienced athletes, artists, or creative professionals
• Wellbeing and personal development support
• Resources supporting participation in recognised sporting or creative programs
Support is tailored to help recipients grow their talent while maintaining a strong cultural connection and community representation.
3. Who Can Apply?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Sporting & Creative Arts Scholarships are open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who demonstrate commitment to developing their sporting or creative abilities.
Applicants should:
• Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Demonstrate talent, participation, or recognised involvement in sport or creative arts
• Show dedication to training, development, or artistic growth
• Demonstrate positive community engagement or cultural connection
• Show willingness to represent their community and act as positive role models
Applicants may include school students, emerging athletes, performing artists, musicians, visual artists, dancers, or individuals pursuing creative industry pathways.
4. Eligibility & Selection Criteria
The Foundation is committed to supporting individuals who demonstrate passion, discipline, cultural pride, and commitment to their chosen sporting or creative field.
Applications are assessed holistically, considering:
• Demonstrated ability, participation, or achievements in sport or creative arts
• Commitment to training, development, or artistic growth
• Cultural connection and community involvement
• Personal or financial barriers impacting participation
• Leadership potential or role model qualities
• Alignment with Foundation values and cultural respect
The Foundation prioritises applicants who demonstrate how scholarship support will enhance both personal development and community pride.
5. Supporting Documents Required
Applicants are required to provide documentation to assist the Foundation in fairly assessing participation, talent development, and individual circumstances.
Supporting documentation may include:
• Proof of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity
• Personal statement outlining sporting or creative goals and community connection
• Evidence of participation such as competition results, portfolios, performances, or program involvement
• Letter of support from a coach, teacher, mentor, or community leader
• Any additional documents supporting financial need or development opportunities
Applicants experiencing difficulty obtaining documentation are encouraged to contact the Foundation for assistance.
6. Application Process
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Sporting & Creative Arts Scholarship application process is designed to be accessible, culturally respectful, and supportive.
Applicants are invited to submit an application outlining their sporting or creative journey, development goals, and future aspirations, along with required supporting documentation.
Applications are reviewed through a culturally informed and merit-based assessment process that recognises talent, commitment, and community contribution.
Application steps include:
• Complete the scholarship application form
• Prepare and submit supporting documentation
• Submit application before the closing date
• Applications reviewed by the Foundation selection panel
• Applicants notified of outcome
Applicants may be contacted for further information or clarification during the assessment process.
7. Assessment & Selection Process
Applications are assessed by a scholarship selection panel using a fair and culturally respectful evaluation process.
The panel considers factors including talent development, dedication to training or artistic growth, cultural and community engagement, leadership potential, and personal circumstances.
These assessment areas help ensure scholarships are awarded to individuals who demonstrate commitment and potential to positively represent their communities and culture.
8. Key Dates & Deadlines
Applications for the Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Secondary School Scholarships are offered annually
• Applications open: TBA
• Applications close: TBA
• Assessment period: 4–6 weeks following application closure
• Successful applicants notified: Within 2 weeks of final assessment
• Scholarship support begins: TBA
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Timeframes may vary depending on funding availability and application volume.
9. Contact & Support
Families or individuals seeking help with the application process are strongly encouraged to reach out to the Foundation for assistance. Our dedicated support team is ready to provide guidance and resources to ensure that every student has a fair and equal opportunity to complete their application successfully. We understand that the application process can be challenging, and we are here to help navigate any questions or concerns you may have.
For personalised support, feel free to contact us at the following email address:
We look forward to assisting you!