A new generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders in cancer.
The First Nations Cancer Scholarship Program is funded by the Australian Government through Cancer Australia. Established by the Aurora Education Foundation and Cancer Australia, the First Nations Cancer Scholarship (Scholarship) will support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduate students, health professionals, and early-career researchers (ECRs) to undertake full-time postgraduate study (graduate certificate, masters or PhD) or research in a cancer-related field. The purpose of the Scholarship is to support Scholars in building the skills and knowledge required to inform strategies to improve cancer outcomes for Indigenous communities and increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders in cancer-related fields.
The Scholarship provides Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduate students, ECRs and professionals access to funds to support their full-time studies or research at recognised universities or institutes in Australia, the US or UK.
Up to four scholarships will be awarded annually between 2024 and 2026. Successful applicants will receive:
- Up to $120,000 AUD per year, for up to three years
- Up to $5,000 AUD per year in tailored academic and wellbeing support
- Ongoing funding – no need to reapply each year
The program is administered by Aurora, in partnership with Cancer Australia, and funded by the Australian Government.
Applicants must be:
- Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
- A health professional, graduate student, or early-career researcher
- Enrolled in full-time postgraduate study or research in a cancer-related field (Please note: Postgraduate medical students are not eligible in 2026)
- Undertaking study or research that contributes to improved cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
Applications must be submitted by Friday 11 September 2026.
For further information and how to apply please visit Aurora’s Indigenous Pathways Portal: 2026 First Nations Cancer Scholarship Application