First Nations researchers have the opportunity to strengthen their careers and expand global collaborations with the launch of Natural Hazards Research Australia’s Emerging First Nations Researcher Development and Industry Fellowships.
The Fellowships are designed to support the career development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across various stages of their research career journey. The program welcomes applications from community-based researchers, late-stage students, early career researchers and developing researchers employed in industry. The Fellowships recognise the value that can be achieved by supporting early career researchers to expand their research networks, create strong local and international collaborations and have the opportunity to compare the opportunities and challenges for natural hazards research in different geographic, societal, cultural and climatic settings.
Inclusive approach to research pathways
To ensure the opportunity is open to researchers at various stages of their journey, applicants are not required to hold formal tertiary education qualifications or have aspirations toward traditional academic pathways, as the Fellowship is also open to community-based researchers who can meet recognition criteria to demonstrate equivalent learning pathways as an emerging First Nations researcher.
Fellowship outcomes
Recipients will have opportunities to:
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further develop their research credentials
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pursue new research-based collaborations
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access career development support tailored to their individual pathways.
The program aims to meet emerging First Nations researchers at their current career stage and provide targeted support for future professional development in the natural hazards research sector.
Application information
Applications for the Emerging First Nations Researcher Development and Industry Fellowships open on 30 September 2025 and close at 5:00pm AEDT, 15 November 2025.
One Fellowship for the 2025-26 financial year is available for up to $15,000.
Other support available to fellowship holders
Fellowship holders will benefit from a range of additional opportunities, including networking opportunities, mentoring, promotion of research, and connection into the Centre’s knowledge network.
Fellowship holders will be able to apply for additional funding support to attend a relevant annual conference and to participate in events and activities run by the Centre.
Further information
If you have any questions about the Fellowship or want to discuss any application support needs, please email research@naturalhazards.com.au.