THE AFL has launched a new First Nations Coaching Scholarship Program in partnership with the AFL Coaches Association, designed to strengthen elite coaching pathways for First Nations people across the industry.
A new initiative under the AFL’s First Nations Impact Fund, the scholarship is designed for First Nations people currently coaching or playing at any level, with clubs encouraged to identify and endorse candidates who have the potential and ambition to progress through elite coaching pathways.
The 2026/27 program will offer four scholarships, each worth $15,000, to support development opportunities that build coaching knowledge, capability and practical experience.
The program includes access to development opportunities through the AFLCA, such as the AFLCA Study Tour and the AFLCA Next Coach Program, alongside other programs and practical coaching experience.
AFL General Manager of First Nations Engagement and Inclusion Taryn Lee said:
“We’re incredibly proud to launch the First Nations Coaching Scholarship Program. After engagement across the industry, it’s clear there is work to be done in improving the coaching talent pipeline for First Nations people at the elite level.
“This program is an industry investment in First Nations leadership, with the program aimed at building a stronger, more visible pathway for First Nations coaching talent aspiring to move into elite coaching roles.
“After formally announcing this program to clubs last week, they have welcomed the opportunity to put forward current coaches and players who will benefit from structured support to take the next step in their coaching journey.
“The AFL First Nations Impact Fund allows programs such as this to grow First Nations representation across football, while working to attract, retain and value First Nations talent.”
Applications for the First Nations Coaching Scholarship Program close on Wednesday, 12 August 2026, with program participants to be confirmed in late August.
The First Nations Impact Fund reinvests royalties from Sir Doug Nicholls Round merchandise into initiatives delivered in partnership with AFL clubs, that support the growth and engagement of First Nations people in the game.
Approximately $300,000 will be invested annually through the Fund, in initiatives that align with the priorities outlined in the AFL’s First Nations Strategy – growing First Nations representation across every level of the AFL industry, creating culturally safe environments for players to thrive, and calling out and addressing racism wherever it exists.