The CSIRO has committed $1.5 million to a new scholarship program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and energy transition-related degrees at the University of Newcastle.

The CSIRO Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Energy Transition Scholarship is designed to create stronger pathways into STEM careers and increase Indigenous participation in Australia's future science, technology and energy workforce.

Under the partnership, two students each year will receive $15,000 annually for up to five years, giving each recipient access to as much as $75,000 in scholarship support.

About 100 scholarships will be awarded over the life of the program, creating opportunities for students to access higher education and build pathways towards future employment.

Bandjin woman and University of Newcastle Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Strategy and Leader, Loren Collyer, said the scholarships signals to Indigenous students that there is a place for them in the sector.

"These scholarships provide more than financial support for students, they send a powerful message that Indigenous students belong in STEM," Mrs Collyer said.

"The impact extends well beyond the individual recipient. When Indigenous students succeed at university, it creates opportunities for families, it inspires communities and helps build on a legacy of achievement for future generations."

The scholarship forms part of the University of Newcastle's broader commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student success through the Wollotuka Institute.

The initiative also reflects principles outlined in the university's co-authored paper Philanthropy, Our Way, which examines how philanthropy can create opportunities and support success when guided by relationships, trust and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led priorities.

CSIRO Energy Director, Dr Dietmar Tourbier, said the scholarship was designed to remove barriers to education and strengthen Indigenous participation in STEM and the energy sector.

"CSIRO is delighted to partner with the University of Newcastle to support outcomes that continue future STEM opportunities for Indigenous students," Dr Tourbier said.

"By supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to develop skills in energy, science, technology and engineering, our shared aim is to open additional pathways into careers that will continue to attract more talent and drive Australia's clean energy transition and future prosperity."

Applications for the CSIRO Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Energy Transition STEM Scholarship opened on Wednesday and will remain open until March 2027.