1. Overview
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Cultural & Leadership Scholarships support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people who demonstrate commitment to cultural knowledge, community leadership, and personal development.
These scholarships recognise that strong cultural identity plays a vital role in educational success, wellbeing, and leadership growth. The program supports individuals who actively contribute to strengthening culture, mentoring others, and building positive change within their communities.
Through culturally grounded support, leadership development opportunities, and mentoring, the Foundation aims to empower future Indigenous leaders who honour tradition while creating pathways for the next generation.
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GUIDELINES & FORMS
2. What Support Is Available?
The Cultural & Leadership Scholarships provide flexible support tailored to individual development, cultural participation, and leadership growth.
Support may include:
• Assistance with participation in cultural programs, camps, or leadership initiatives
• Funding for cultural education, language programs, or traditional knowledge learning
• Travel or participation support for cultural or leadership conferences and events
• Mentoring and leadership coaching opportunities
• Wellbeing and personal development support
• Resources that strengthen cultural connection and community engagement
Support is designed to help recipients grow as strong cultural ambassadors and community role models.
3. Who Can Apply?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Cultural & Leadership Scholarships are open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals who demonstrate cultural engagement, leadership potential, and commitment to community contribution.
Applicants should:
• Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Demonstrate involvement in cultural, community, or leadership activities
• Show commitment to personal growth and leadership development
• Demonstrate willingness to mentor or support others where appropriate
• Show strong connection to community, culture, or education pathways
Applicants may be students, emerging leaders, or individuals participating in recognised community or cultural development programs.
4. Eligibility & Selection Criteria
The Foundation is committed to supporting individuals who demonstrate cultural pride, leadership growth, and community responsibility.
Applications are assessed holistically, considering:
• Demonstrated cultural involvement or community engagement
• Leadership potential and commitment to personal development
• Participation in community, cultural, or youth initiatives
• Personal circumstances or barriers requiring support
• Willingness to contribute positively to community and cultural continuity
• Alignment with Foundation values and respect for cultural knowledge
The Foundation prioritises applicants who demonstrate how scholarship support will strengthen both individual development and community impact.
5. Supporting Documents Required
The Foundation is committed to supporting individuals who demonstrate cultural pride, leadership growth, and community responsibility.
Applications are assessed holistically, considering:
• Demonstrated cultural involvement or community engagement
• Leadership potential and commitment to personal development
• Participation in community, cultural, or youth initiatives
• Personal circumstances or barriers requiring support
• Willingness to contribute positively to community and cultural continuity
• Alignment with Foundation values and respect for cultural knowledge
The Foundation prioritises applicants who demonstrate how scholarship support will strengthen both individual development and community impact.
6. Application Process
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Cultural & Leadership Scholarship application process is designed to be culturally respectful, accessible, and supportive.
Applicants are invited to submit an application outlining their cultural journey, leadership aspirations, community involvement, and future goals, along with required supporting documentation.
Applications are reviewed through a culturally informed and merit-based assessment process that values lived experience, community contribution, and leadership growth.
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 a range of factors, including cultural engagement, leadership potential, community contribution, personal development goals, and individual circumstances. The Foundation uses these assessment areas as a guide to ensure scholarships support individuals who will positively influence community strength and cultural continuity.
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!