Aspiring First Nations female business executives have been urged to apply for a one-of-a-kind, four-month leadership program.

Two Indigenous women last year were among 42 applicants for the Victorian-based program by the Women of Colour Australia but had to withdraw their interest due to associated costs with the program.

But WoCA hoped free participation in 2024 would attract even more Indigenous applicants for the country's only executive leadership program, which is run and provided for women of colour.

There are 16 spots on offer this year and the organisation hoped the free element in 2024 would encourage First Nations female executives to apply before the July 1 deadline.

"Last year WoCA received two expressions of interest out of 42 from Indigenous women, however they both had to pull out because of the cost," a spokeswoman told the National Indigenous Times.

"However with the program being fully funded this year, WoCA is hoping that more First Nations women apply."

The WoC executive leadership program was designed to build the capability and confidence of Women of Colour leaders, helping advance their careers, while addressing a leadership gap in Australian institutions.

The program entails tailored education programs and community support initiatives, with its prime focus enhancing women of colour pursue leadership roles across a range of sectors, addressing an underrepresentation of women in decision-making roles and the unique challenges they face progressing their careers at executive levels.

Brenda Gaddi, founder and managing director of Women of Colour Australia, said gender bias, racism, language barriers and workplace discrimination were just some obstacles impeding women reaching their leadership potential and career goals.

"WoCA recognises the need for a more inclusive and diverse representation in leadership roles, as the disparities are compounding in the long term, resulting in disproportionate social and economic disadvantages for diverse women," she said.

"We want to create a more inclusive and diverse society by empowering women of colour to strive for their career goals."

"Women of Colour who participate in traditional career development programs often find themselves navigating White spaces, code switching and not feeling culturally and psychologically safe to bring their full, authentic self to the program.

"Our program not only addresses the unique challenges they face, but provides a supportive environment for women to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed."

Ms Gaddi said the program was not a box-ticking exercise that "you set and then forget about", with 67 per cent of the 2023 cohort promoted within six months of completing the program.

"The impact of our program is palpable and we are confident in its ability to gradually chip away at the existing leadership gap in Australia by elevating more Women of Colour in leadership positions across industries," she said.

The four-month, program from August to November gives participants access to in-person workshops, personalised online executive coaching sessions by respected business coach Koon Lai, and networking opportunities to enhance leadership skills and accelerate career growth.

WoCA sourced highly-respected subject expert matters and thought leaders - all women of colour - to help design and deliver of program, including Tasneem Chopra OAM, Cross-Cultural Consultant and DEI trainer, Winitha Bonney OAM, a global DEI expert, and Abiola Ajetomobi, founding director of Leading Impact, an Australian-based equity and inclusion consulting agency.

The 16 participants in 2024 would also have access to small group coaching and executive mentoring, as well as pre and post-program assessments to ensure they are given the best opportunity to have meaningful and lasting impacts on workplaces and communities.

One 2023 participant who was a senior manager in the Victorian public service said the program helped her pursue opportunities, strengthen her networking base and be a catalyst for change in her organisation.

"It also encouraged me to use my voice for advocacy, which led me to take on the role as co-chair of DJSIR's People of Colour Network," said participant Devika.

"Through this role I have been able to create more opportunities for people of colour to connect, share experiences and grow together."

Applications close midnight Monday 1 July 2024, and can be done online.