Improving Outcomes For Victoria's First Nations Students

The Allan Labor Government is investing in initiatives aimed at lifting learning and wellbeing outcomes for First Nations students – ensuring every student has the chance to thrive.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced $6 million in grants to support priorities that will further embed Aboriginal perspectives in the Victorian curriculum.

Registered Aboriginal Parties are encouraged to apply for grants to fund curriculum and languages initiatives that prioritise self-determination and strengthen cultural safety and lift learning and wellbeing outcomes for Victoria’s First Nations students.

The Government will work closely with Registered Aboriginal Parties to support activities that teach and reclaim Aboriginal languages and embed Aboriginal perspectives in the curriculum.

The grants deliver on Labor’s $51 million investment in First Nations education in the Victorian Budget 2024/25, including $31 million to resource Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) in improving learning and wellbeing outcomes for students.

The Victorian Budget 2025/26 provided a further $18.5 million for the Koorie Literacy and Numeracy Program, and $5.2 million ongoing.

This investment will progress Victoria’s commitment to self-determination, Treaty, the National Agreement on Closing the Gap priority reforms, and the Marrung: Aboriginal Education Plan 2016-2026 vision.

Quotes attributable to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“We are proud to help schools embed Aboriginal perspectives in the curriculum, because we know this will improve learning and wellbeing outcomes for First Nations students.”

“The grants benefit all students, celebrate First Nations cultures and help revitalise Aboriginal languages – building a fairer, stronger Victoria for everyone.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins

"This investment is about more than education, it's about respect, reconciliation and building a future where every student can thrive."

Quotes attributable to Victorian Aboriginal Education Association Incorporated General Manager Lionel Bamblett

"VAEAI looks forward to supporting our Koorie community, the Department of Education and Registered Aboriginal Parties to further develop the curriculum and languages initiatives.”