As of 1 January, 2026, all successful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants to Melbourne Business School's MBA programs will receive a scholarship to cover the full costs of their tuition.
The MBA scholarships, announced Thursday, will be offered for the next five years and were made possible by supporters including mining giant BHP, which has have invested $20 million in Indigenous business education and research at the Dilin Duwa Centre for Indigenous Business Leadership and Melbourne Business School.
Dilin Duwa Centre director Professor Michelle Evans said empowering the next generation of Indigenous business leaders was critical for not only for advancing meaningful change in their own communities, but also the Australian economy.
"Indigenous business contributes over $16 billion in revenue each year, employing more than 116,000 people, and bring immense benefits to the community which go beyond economic numbers," she said.
"We need informed, impactful leaders to continue to support this important sector."
That is why investing in the skills and capabilities of current and future business leaders for the community is so important.
"Leadership and social networks are strengthened by education."
Professor Evans noted the "transformative" nature of education provided by Melbourne Business School, citing MBA graduates such as Dr Jennifer Beer, who is now General Manager of Telstra Health.
"Yet the cost to take part in our courses and award programs prove a barrier to Indigenous Australian business leaders," she said.
"A range of scholarships supported by BHP and a dedicated group of philanthropists, are a way of ensuring equity for Indigenous Australians."
BHP's Head of Indigenous Engagement, Allan James, said the scholarships are "bringing to life" the company's $20 million investment in support of the School's Indigenous initiatives.
"These scholarships are a powerful way to support the next generation of Indigenous leaders," he said.
"We know the talent and capability already exists within Indigenous communities. By removing barriers and creating access to world-class education, we can help unlock that potential and amplify its impact.
"This is not just about individual opportunity, it's about nation-building. Strong Indigenous leadership strengthens communities, industries, and the economy, and we're proud to play a role in enabling that future."
Melbourne Business School Dean, Professor Jenny George said the scholarships will enable the School to fulfil its commitment of "creating better business leaders, capable of creating positive change for their communities".
"With the support of BHP and our donors, we will be able to shape the next generation of Indigenous business leaders who will be capable of strengthening the Australian economy."
More information about studying at Melbourne Business School is available on the institution's Degree Programs page.
