Two bursaries valued up to $15,000 available to Australian Indigenous scholars currently undertaking a PhD on a topic related to Indigenous knowledge.
STATUS: Closed. Opens again in April 2026, to be confirmed.
The Indigenous Knowledge Institute at the University of Melbourne works to recognise the expertise of Indigenous knowledge holders, and the knowledge systems in which they are a part. We advance research, build connections and develop engagement opportunities with Indigenous knowledge holders across Australia and throughout the world. Read more about us.
About the bursary
As part of our role developing the next generation of Indigenous researchers, each year we offer two $15,000 bursaries (paid over three years) to Indigenous PhD candidates exploring a topic related to Indigenous knowledge.
Indigenous knowledge, sometimes called traditional or local knowledge, refers to the understandings and practices developed by Indigenous peoples through thousands of years of experience. Indigenous knowledge systems are characteristically holistic, relational, and rooted in a strong and continuing connection with the land, sky, and waters. Knowledge is often passed down orally and can be collectively owned. It can include or be embodied in language, song, story, ritual, lore, and customary practices. The knowledge of Indigenous peoples does not represent a static body of traditional information, and the capacity to incorporate new tools and skills has always been fundamental to the dynamism of Indigenous cultures.
You will join a vibrant cohort of Indigenous graduate researchers with access to support and domestic and international opportunities.
Eligibility and selection criteria
This bursary is available to Indigenous scholars preparing to undertake a PhD related to Indigenous knowledge in any academic discipline. Interdisciplinary research is encouraged.
Only domestic Indigenous PhD students are eligible. 'Indigenous' here means a person of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.
Candidates should also be committed to ethical and respectful relationships with Indigenous people and communities and follow the institute's Charter for research with Indigenous knowledge holders.
Applicants who study part-time will be considered, and may opt to be paid at $2,500 per annum over six years (up to a total of $15,000)
If you are a later year PhD student, please get in touch with us at Indigenous-knowledge@unimelb.edu.au before applying.
Previous recipients
The Indigenous Knowledge Institute has supported Indigenous scholars undertaking PhDs related to Indigenous knowledge since 2021. Find out more.
Key dates
Applications open | Mid-April |
Applications close | Mid-May |
Funding outcomes | Mid-June First payment made early July Subsequent payments made in January each year |
Funding payments | First payment is made early July Subsequent payments are made in January each year |
*Timing is indicative only, subject to confirmation.
How to apply
If you are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent and preparing to undertake a PhD project related to Indigenous knowledge, we want to hear from you.
To apply, please download the application form below (available in either PDF or Word format). Further information about eligibility can be found in the application form.
Download the Application Form (PDF 927.8 KB)
Download the Application Form (Word.doc)
Send your completed application form and attachments to Indigenous-knowledge@unimelb.edu.au.
More information
For more information, contact us at Indigenous-knowledge@unimelb.edu.au.