Applications Now Open for the 2026 Leah Armstrong Scholarship as Program Enters its Third Year

First Nations Economics (FNE) is proud to open applications for the 2026 Leah Armstrong Scholarship, a nationally recognised program that supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in pursuing tertiary studies in economics, business, finance, governance, and related fields.

Entering its third year, the scholarship continues to grow in impact, with past recipients achieving academic success, building leadership capability, and contributing to strong economic outcomes within their families, organisations, and communities.

The scholarship honours the outstanding achievements of Leah Armstrong, a Torres Strait Islander woman with more than 30 years’ experience driving Indigenous economic empowerment. Leah has led major national organisations, shaped economic policy, and championed First Nations leadership through philanthropy and governance.

FNE Managing Director, Associate Professor Rick Macourt, said the program is helping reshape pathways for First Nations women in fields where they remain underrepresented but are critically needed.

“When Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are supported to study economics, finance, business and governance, our communities become stronger. This scholarship continues to open doors, grow confidence and develop future leaders. We are proud to support the next generation of First Nations women as they pursue education and create change.”

Scholarship Patron Leah Armstrong encouraged eligible women across the country to take the step and apply in 2026.

“Our women bring strength, cultural intelligence and lived experience that Australia urgently needs in economic leadership. This scholarship removes barriers and helps women walk into their studies proud, supported and ready to make a difference. I encourage every eligible woman to back herself and apply.”

The scholarship provides financial support, leadership development, mentoring, and connection to a growing alumni community. Applicants will also be invited to join a free online “How to Apply” webinar that offers guidance and practical tips for preparing a strong submission.

Applications are open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who are studying or intend to study at an Australian university or tertiary institution.

Applications close 23 January 2026

To learn more about the scholarship and the application process, please visit www.firstnationeconomics.com

Gurminder Saro

Interim Chair

Associate Professor Rick Macourt is a proud, queer Gumbaynggirr man, lawyer, and economic specialist. He leads First Nations Economics as Managing Director of Strategy and Foundation and serves as Associate Dean of First Nations Strategy and Services at the University of Sydney.

With over 15 years of experience spanning government, corporate, and not-for-profit sectors, Rick is deeply committed to advancing the economic development of First Peoples. As the former Director of First Nations Expenditure and Outcomes at NSW Treasury, he spearheaded the state’s inaugural Indigenous expenditure reporting processes and established the groundbreaking First Nations budget process in 2021/22. Previously, Rick held an executive role at the Westpac Group, overseeing First Nations affairs, and has a rich history in government, monitoring, evaluation, and negotiation, with senior positions at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, City of Sydney, and Standards Australia.

Rick is a published author with Oxford University Press, a member of the First Nations Advisory Board of Siemens Australia, and a Non-Executive Director on the board of Barnardos Australia.