Preserving Culture and Creating Change – Kodie’s Journey
“By supporting organisations like AIEF and providing young Indigenous children with access to quality education you’re not just supporting one child, you’re supporting their family and their broader community.” Growing up in a close-knit community but a crowded home, Kodie found it challenging to focus on her goals. Boarding school offered the space and stability […]
From Student to Business Leader – Jacquin’s Journey
“I personally valued the opportunity I received from AIEF and wanted to share it with others, allowing someone else to benefit in the same way.” Meet Jacquin (Jac), a proud Gunditjmara man who completed Year 12 at Melbourne Grammar School on an AIEF Scholarship in 2019. His parents always dreamed of him attending boarding school as […]
AIEF Drives Education Equality to Make an Indigenous Prime Minister Possible
AIEF Drives Education Equality to Make an Indigenous Prime Minister Possible The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) has launched a powerful new national campaign highlighting the urgent need for education equality for young Indigenous Australians. The campaign, supported by The Australian, comes as Newspoll data reveals that just 23% of Australians believe they will see […]
We believe it can happen
One in two Australians believe we’ll never see an Indigenous Prime Minister. We believe it can happen. Our campaign launches as Newspoll research reveals that just 23% of Australians believe they will see an Indigenous Prime Minister in their lifetime. Without access to quality schooling or university qualifications, the path to leadership — in Parliament, […]
THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN
THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN WE SAY IT CAN. AIEF helps empower young Indigenous people to access quality education, ensuring that opportunity reaches those who need it most. Without access to education, the path to leadership – in Parliament, in boardrooms, in every place decisions are made – is blocked before it even begins. By removing […]
AIEF Appoints Alum Wyatt Cook-Revell to the Board of Directors
AIEF Appoints Alum Wyatt Cook-Revell to the Board of Directors The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) has today announced the appointment of Wyatt Cook-Revell as a Non-Executive Director of AIEF. Mr Cook-Revell brings valuable skills and experience from the legal field, developed since graduating school and university on an AIEF Scholarship. He joins current Directors […]
In Memoriam: Prof the Hon Dame Marie Bashir
In Memoriam The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) is deeply saddened by the death of AIEF Patron Professor The Honourable Dame Marie Bashir AD CVO. Professor Bashir passed away on 20 January 2026 in Sydney aged 95. Michelle Penfold, Deputy CEO, Founder and Director of AIEF, paid tribute to Professor Bashir’s longstanding support of the […]
Bridget’s Journey from the Torres Strait
“I never would have been in the position I am today if it wasn’t for AIEF. I felt extremely supported throughout my schooling life and beyond.” Bridget’s journey began on Thursday Island in the Torres Strait and led her to Pymble Ladies’ College in Sydney on an AIEF Scholarship. During secondary school, she was elected […]
Soaring to New Heights
“I truly cannot thank AIEF enough for their support in helping me get into my dream job.” A proud Manandanji woman, Xaire grew up in Toowoomba as part of a large extended family. Having first heard about St Peters Lutheran College in Brisbane when she was in Year 6, the thought of going to boarding […]
From Birpai Country to the Frontlines – Jackson’s Journey
“It’s a reminder that while we’re proud of our culture and achievements, many Indigenous people still face barriers to opportunity.” Jackson grew up on Birpai Country in Port Macquarie, surrounded by family, culture and community. A thoughtful and driven young man, his journey – from a small coastal town to becoming a flight nurse with […]
A Bond Built on Honesty and Encouragement
“It’s been great to see how well Lucas has made the most of all of the activities on offer at MGS.” The second youngest of four siblings, proud Worimi student Lucas began boarding at Melbourne Grammar School on an AIEF Scholarship for his senior years. Moving into Year 12, Lucas had to begin thinking seriously […]
Goals for Life after Graduation
“It’s been great to see how well Lucas has made the most of all of the activities on offer at MGS.” The second youngest of four siblings, proud Worimi student Lucas began boarding at Melbourne Grammar School on an AIEF Scholarship for his senior years. Moving into Year 12, Lucas had to begin thinking seriously […]