A boost is on the way for emerging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, with a new investment set to expand access to culturally grounded leadership programs across Australia.
Paul Ramsay Foundation has announced a $780,000 grant over three years to support First Peoples Leading, enabling scholarships for its First Nations-designed and delivered programs.
The investment will help equip more First Nations people with the skills, confidence, and connections to drive positive change in their communities and workplaces.
Ben Ballard, CEO of First Peoples Leading, said the scholarship funding was an important step in ensuring leadership opportunities were accessible to more First Nations people.
"Leadership development shouldn't be a luxury - it's key for creating positive change across our societies," he said.
The funding will provide subsidised places in the organisation's three flagship programs - Next Gen, Impact, and Changemakers - covering up to 85 per cent of program costs.
It is targeted at First Nations people at all career stages, from those studying or self-employed, to those working in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, First Nations-led not-for-profits, or Indigenous-owned businesses.
"If there has ever been a time when we needed real change to create a better future for everyone, that time is now," Mr Ballard said.
"When we remove financial barriers and provide culturally responsive leadership development for First Peoples, we strengthen more than individual careers or organisations. We create positive, lasting change that flows through our communities and beyond, reshaping the systems that affect all First Peoples."
Michelle Steele, the Foundation's Chief First Nations Officer, said PRF was proud to play a role in strengthening First Nations leadership.
"This funding will help bridge the gap in accessible, culturally relevant leadership training for First Nations leaders - particularly those from smaller, grassroots organisations," she said.
She noted that by investing in Indigenous leaders, they are "investing in stronger communities and more impactful organisations".
"It's clear the impact of these programs goes beyond developing leaders' skills, Ms Steele said.
"They build networks, confidence, and agency, creating a ripple effect of positive change."
For many who have been involved in the programs, the scholarships offered by First Peoples Leading provide opportunities to reflect, grow, and lead within a culturally safe and supportive environment.
Coral Lever, CEO of First Nations Response and a graduate of the Impact program, said the initiative provided critical tools for empowerment.
"We know that self-determination for Mob is key," she said. "We are more than capable of running our own businesses and organisations, but we do need support."
Since 2020, First Peoples Leading has supported more than 450 graduates through programs that combine global leadership frameworks with cultural knowledge and lived experience.
Each course is designed and delivered by experienced First Nations leaders, empowering participants to lead with both head and heart.
Ms Lever noted being given these opportunities means "you're actually helping develop what's needed for our communities".
"It's by Mob for Mob, but we need these opportunities," she said. "Otherwise, we won't be able to fill skill gaps or build our organisations with the support we need."
Applications are now open online.
