1. Overview
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Tertiary Education Scholarships support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students pursuing university, TAFE, or accredited vocational education pathways. These scholarships are designed to reduce financial barriers, strengthen cultural identity, and support students to successfully complete their chosen qualification. Recognising that tertiary education can present unique challenges, the Foundation provides culturally grounded assistance, mentoring support, and practical educational resources. The program encourages students to pursue career pathways that strengthen individuals, families, and communities.
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GUIDELINES & FORMS
2. What Support Is Available?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation understands that tertiary study requires both academic and personal support. Scholarships may include assistance tailored to the needs of each student and their chosen study pathway.
Support may include:
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• Course fees or study-related expenses
• Textbooks, learning materials, or technology support
• Accommodation or relocation assistance where appropriate
• Mentoring and leadership development opportunities
• Cultural connection and wellbeing support
• Career pathway planning and professional development support
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Scholarship assistance is designed to help students remain focused, confident, and connected throughout their education journey.
3. Who Can Apply?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Tertiary Education Scholarships are available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who demonstrate commitment to higher education, personal development, and community connection.
Applicants should:
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• Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Be enrolled or intending to enrol in an approved tertiary education program
• Demonstrate commitment to completing their qualification
• Show positive community, cultural, or leadership engagement
• Be willing to participate in mentoring or leadership opportunities where available
4. Eligibility & Selection Criteria
The Foundation is committed to supporting students who demonstrate determination, cultural pride, and a strong commitment to achieving educational and career goals.
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Applications are assessed holistically, considering:
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• Commitment to education and long-term career goals
• Personal or family circumstances requiring support
• Engagement in community, cultural, or leadership activities
• Willingness to participate in mentoring or support programs
• Alignment with Foundation values and cultural respect
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The Foundation prioritises applicants who demonstrate how scholarship support will positively impact their educational journey and future community contribution.
5. Supporting Documents Required
Applicants are required to provide documentation to assist the Foundation in fairly assessing eligibility, educational commitment, and individual circumstances.
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Supporting documentation may include:
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• Proof of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity
• Confirmation of tertiary enrolment or acceptance offer
• Recent academic transcript or results summary
• Personal statement outlining educational goals and aspirations
• Letter of support from lecturer, employer, Elder, mentor, or community leader
• Any additional documents supporting financial need or personal circumstances
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Applicants who experience difficulty obtaining documentation are encouraged to contact the Foundation for assistance.
6. Application Process
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Tertiary Scholarship application process is designed to be accessible, respectful, and supportive for all applicants.
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Applicants are invited to submit an application outlining educational goals, personal aspirations, and community connections, along with required supporting documentation. Applications are reviewed through a culturally informed and merit-based assessment process.
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Applicants may be contacted for additional information during the assessment period and will be notified once final decisions have been made.
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Application steps include:
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• 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
7. Assessment & Selection Process
Applications are assessed by a scholarship selection panel using a fair and culturally respectful evaluation process.
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The panel considers a range of factors, including educational commitment, personal goals, community and cultural involvement, leadership potential, and individual circumstances. The Foundation uses these assessment areas as a guide to ensure scholarships are awarded to students who will benefit most from support and demonstrate a strong commitment to their education and community.
8. Key Dates & Deadlines
Applications for the Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Secondary School Scholarships are offered annually
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• 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
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Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
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​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.
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For personalised support, feel free to contact us at the following email address:
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We look forward to assisting you!