Deadline: July 28, 2025

Applications are open for the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) Program 2026. The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) is a transformative Indigenous-centred fellowship program based at the University of Melbourne and supported by Waipapa Taumata Rau University of Auckland.

They are building a dynamic network of Indigenous leaders and allies committed to driving Indigenous-led social change across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and Pacific Island nations. The fellowship program is designed for mid-career, community-focused individuals with a bias for action – those ready to transform bold ideas into real-world initiatives that advance social equity for Indigenous peoples.


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Whether you’re working in community organisations, government, business, healthcare, or the arts, AFSE provides the connections, resources, and support to confidently drive the change needed to create a more just and equitable world.

Benefits

Foundation Year (2026)

  • Fee-free University of Melbourne master’s degree in social change leadership
  • All costs covered for your Foundation Year, including travel, accommodation, cultural activities, and program events (dinners, graduations, etc.)
  • Generous stipend allowances to help with your everyday expenses and other needs for participation
  • Personal academic support with one-on-one tutoring, group study sessions, and learning assistance
  • Free mental health services from Indigenous psychologists and counsellors
  • Disability support to ensure equal access
  • Plus access to the full range of support services available to all University of Melbourne students.

Lifelong Fellowship (2027 and beyond)

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  • Up to $30,000 for your social change initiative and professional development
  • Lifelong membership to the Global Atlantic Fellow network
  • Continued engagement with AFSE through mentoring opportunities, events, and promotion of your work

Eligibility

Indigenous peoples and allies (non-Indigenous individuals with proven experience collaborating with Indigenous peoples or communities) who meet the following eligibility criteria can apply.

  • Citizenship: Citizen or permanent resident of Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, or a Pacific Island nation.
  • Experience: Undergraduate degree OR 5 – 8 years of social change work experience (typically mid-career professionals aged 25-65).
  • Education Status: Cannot be enrolled in other educational programs or have a thesis under examination as of January 2026.
  • Fellowship Status: Not currently participating in any Atlantic Fellowship programs.
  • Language: Proficient in English.
  • Travel Requirements:
    • Valid passport (or ability to obtain one)
    • Availability to travel for seven weeks throughout the year (travel destinations include various locations across Australia and New Zealand)
    • Australian student visa required for Pacific Island passport holders

Application

Applications close 11:59 pm (AEST) on Monday, 28 July 2025.

Click here to apply


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For more information, visit AFSE Program.

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