Rio Tinto, in collaboration with CareerTrackers, has officially opened applications for its 2025 Indigenous Scholarship Program, aimed at supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students pursuing tertiary education. This prestigious scholarship offers up to AUD $16,500 annually and extends for the entire duration of the recipient’s undergraduate degree.
The scholarship is part of Rio Tinto’s commitment to empowering Indigenous communities, particularly Pilbara Traditional Owners, through education and career development opportunities. Successful scholars may also gain access to internship and graduate employment pathways within the company.
Scholarship Benefits
- Financial Support: Up to AUD $16,500 annually for the duration of the undergraduate degree.
- Career Opportunities: Access to Rio Tinto’s Graduate and Intern Programs.
- Community Support: Strong mentorship and networking opportunities through CareerTrackers.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Rio Tinto Indigenous Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, recognized by their community.
- Be enrolled full-time in an undergraduate program at an Australian university.
- Be a resident of Australia.
Applicants must also belong to one of the following priority groups:
- Pilbara Traditional Owners: Students from Regional Framework Deed signatory groups, including Banjima, Ngarlawangga, Ngarluma, Karlka Nyiyaparli, Puutu Kunti Kuruma Pinikura, Yindjibarndi, Yinhawangka, Robe River Kuruma, and Muntulgura Guruma.
- Pilbara Indigenous Students: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students residing in the Pilbara region, as defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data.
- Western Australian Aboriginal Students: Indigenous students from Western Australia.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documentation:
- Confirmation of Aboriginality, verified by a recognized Aboriginal community organization.
- University enrolment confirmation as a full-time student.
- Personal reference supporting the application.
- A personal reflection aligning with Rio Tinto’s core values: Courage, Care, and Curiosity.
- Evidence of meeting Australian Taxation Office (ATO) criteria for tax-exempt scholarship funds.
Application Process
- Online Application: https://jobs.riotinto.com/job/21611514/rio-tinto-indigenous-scholarship-program-2025/.
- Shortlisting: Selected candidates will progress to interviews.
- Interview: Applicants will discuss their goals and alignment with Rio Tinto’s values.
- Award Notification: Successful applicants will be notified and awarded scholarships.
The last date to apply for the Rio Tinto Indigenous Scholarship Program 2025 is Sunday, 16th March 2025.