CSIRO Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Energy Transition Scholarship

Donor

Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)

Establishment

The CSIRO Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Energy Transition Scholarship has been established to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to undertake study at the University of Newcastle in disciplines that contribute to Australia’s energy transition. The scholarship is open to students across a broad range of study areas, including (but not limited to) engineering and technical disciplines, environmental science, mathematics, data science and policy.

This scholarship acknowledges that the transition to a sustainable energy future requires diverse skills, knowledge and perspectives. It recognises the importance of a multi-disciplinary approach and values the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander knowledge systems in addressing complex energy challenges, encouraging applications from students whose studies align with these evolving needs.

Programs eligible for this scholarship are:

  • Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Civil Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Computer Systems Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Design (Architecture)
  • Bachelor of Development Studies
  • Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Environmental Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management
  • Bachelor of Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Mathematics (including advanced program)
  • Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Renewable Energy Engineering (Honours)
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Social Science
  • Bachelor of Software Engineering (Honours)

Combined degrees will also be considered if they contain at least one of the eligible programs outlined above.

Applicable to Indigenous, part-time study permitted

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, you will need to:

  • Be enrolled in your first or second year of an eligible program (including combined programs) with the University of Newcastle.
  • Be enrolled either full-time or part-time.
  • Demonstrate academic progress by the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) or equivalent required for entry for commencing students, or a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.0 for continuing students (evidence not required for current UON students).
  • Establish your Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status per the process outlined on the Wollotuka Institute's study with us page.
  • Be an Australian citizen or an Australian permanent resident (including holders of a permanent humanitarian visa and New Zealand citizens with permanent residency).
  • Not have previously received this scholarship.
  • Not be the recipient of another University of Newcastle donor-funded or sponsored scholarship concurrently.

Required Documentation

Required documents will be listed on the ‘Your Documents’ page of your application. The application portal accepts PDF only. A maximum of 3 PDF smaller than 5 MB can be added per document type upload field.

  • A personal statement (approx. 1 A4 page) outlining your academic achievements, career aspirations in the relevant area of study, and how a scholarship would assist you. This statement will cover all scholarships you are applying for.
  • An outline of your interest in the scholarship and aspiration to contribute to Australia’s energy transition.
  • Up to 3 documents which demonstrate your academic achievements, such as awards, participation in enrichment and travel programs or internships, academic competitions, portfolio or cv. Transcripts are not required for UON students.

Benefit

The scholarship provides a total benefit of up to $75,000, paid as $7,500 each semester up to a maximum of 5 years provided ongoing eligibility is met and will be capped at the standard duration of the original degree program, including Honours where applicable. The maximum 5-year term applies regardless of study load, meaning part time students will not be funded for any additional time taken to complete their degree.

Payments are typically received 2–3 weeks after the semester census date, or 2–3 weeks after you accept your offer if the census date has already passed.

Selection

Selection is a competitive process and will be based on assessment of the scholarship application and any required supporting documents, with reference to the eligibility criteria.

Selection will be made by the Indigenous Selection Panel which will consist of a minimum of three members chosen by the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Strategy and Leadership which may include one external donor representative. Interviews arranged as required.

College

Contact Details

Scholarships
Student and Academic Services
University of Newcastle
University Drive
CALLAGHAN NSW 2308

Phone: +61 2 4921 5000
Email: scholarships@newcastle.edu.au

Scholarship details

Applications closed

Amount$75,000

Number available2

Applications open18 August 2026

Closing date03 March 2027