1. Overview
Empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students throughout their secondary school journey is at the heart of these transformative scholarships. Designed to foster a rich cultural connection, these opportunities offer not only educational support but also mentorship that nurtures personal growth. Alongside this, students receive comprehensive well-being assistance and tailored pathway planning, all aimed at ensuring they navigate their school years with resilience, pride, and a wealth of possibilities for their future. With these resources, students are not just completing school; they are stepping into their futures with confidence and a strong sense of identity.
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GUIDELINES & FORMS
2. What Support Is Available?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation recognises that educational success requires more than academic ability alone. Our scholarships provide practical, cultural, and well-being support to help students remain engaged, confident, and connected throughout their schooling journey.
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• School supplies and technology assistance
• Uniforms and education materials
• Mentoring and leadership guidance
• Cultural connection and wellbeing support
• Pathway planning for future study or employment
3. Who Can Apply?
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Secondary School Scholarships are available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who demonstrate commitment to education, personal growth, and community connection.
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​• Identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
• Be currently enrolled or intending to enrol in secondary school
• Demonstrate commitment to completing their education
• Show positive community or cultural engagement
• Be willing to participate in mentoring or leadership opportunities where available
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4. Eligibility & Selection Criteria
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation is committed to supporting students who demonstrate determination, cultural pride, and a genuine desire to succeed in their education journey. Applications are assessed holistically, recognising personal circumstances, community connection, and commitment to learning.
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​• Demonstrated commitment to education
• 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
5. Supporting Documents Required
Applicants are required to provide supporting documentation to assist the Foundation in fairly assessing eligibility, educational commitment, and individual circumstances. These documents help ensure scholarships are awarded to students who will benefit most from the support and align with the Foundation’s educational and cultural objectives.
​The Foundation understands that access to documentation may vary, and applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation if they have difficulty providing any required materials.
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• Proof of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander identity
• School or education enrolment confirmation
• Recent academic report or progress summary
• Personal statement or applicant story
• Letter of support from teacher, Elder, mentor, or community leader
• Any additional documents supporting financial need or personal circumstances
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Alternative evidence may be accepted where appropriate.
6. Application Process
The Mary-Lou Buck Foundation Scholarship application process is designed to be accessible, respectful, and supportive for all applicants. Students are invited to submit an application outlining their educational goals, personal aspirations, and community connections, along with the required supporting documentation. Applications are reviewed through a culturally informed and merit-based assessment process that considers educational commitment, personal circumstances, community engagement, and potential benefit from scholarship support.
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Applicants may be contacted for further information or clarification during the assessment process, and all applicants will be notified once final decisions have been made.
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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. 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 from support and demonstrate a strong commitment to their education and community.
​The selection panel may include community representatives, education professionals, and cultural advisors.
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!