The Melbourne Cricket Education Academy and Cricket Victoria Foundation have announced the launch of the Scott Boland Indigenous Scholarship.

The initiative, named after Gulidjan fast bowler Scott Boland, aims to support Indigenous students pursuing a dual Diploma in Business and Leadership & Management, providing pathways to careers in the sports industry.

Boland, Australia's second Indigenous male Test cricketer, expressed his pride in the program.

"I am incredibly proud to put my name and support to this scholarship," Boland said.

"It reflects my commitment to providing the next generation of Indigenous students and athletes with the opportunities they need to succeed.

"I look forward to supporting these students, sharing my experiences, and learning about their personal journeys."

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Melbourne Cricket Education Academy (MCEA) through the Skills First Aboriginal Access Fee Waiver program, along with RMIT student amenity fees and material and learning fees.

Funding is provided through the Cricket Victoria Foundation's partnership with the Australian Sports Foundation.

Recipients will also receive non-financial benefits, including career development opportunities, mentorship from Boland, and exposure to the operations of Cricket Victoria, Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades.

Cricket Victoria Foundation chair, Paul Gardner AM, said the initiative builds on the Foundation's commitment to supporting First Nations communities.

"The Cricket Victoria Foundation's work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities continues to grow, and this scholarship will help increase opportunities," Mr Gardner said.

"I'd like to thank Scott for his support and desire to see this program grow in the years ahead."

The scholarship includes up to $3,500 of in-kind support per student, which can cover uniforms, equipment, learning materials and project-related expenses.

This support is also tailored to align with each recipient's pathway and career goals.

The initiative is a collaboration involving MCEA, RMIT University, Scott Boland and his family, and the Cricket Victoria Foundation.

Boland will play an active role in the selection process, and provide mentoring to scholarship holders throughout the program.

RMIT Indigenous Advisors will assist students by connecting them with Ngarara Willim services and other support networks to ensure their success.

Applicants must be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, meet RMIT admission requirements, and participate in an interview as part of the selection process.

They will also promote the scholarship program and its associated organisations.

Cricket Victoria CEO, Nick Cummins, highlighted the unique opportunities offered by the program.

"This scholarship offers a unique and exciting opportunity for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who want to make a mark in the world of business and sport," Mr Cummins said.

"We look forward to seeing the students thrive in the program."

The scholarship aligns with the Cricket Victoria Foundation's broader mission to break down barriers to participation in cricket.

Through initiatives like this, the Foundation aims to foster stronger connections with Indigenous communities and support equity and inclusion in sport.

Established in 2023, the Cricket Victoria Foundation serves as Cricket Victoria's philanthropic arm, delivering impactful programs that create long-term social change.

Applications for the Scott Boland Indigenous Scholarship for the 2025 intake are now open.

For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit the MCEA website.