The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) is a private sector-led, non-profit organisation focused on empowering Indigenous children in financial need to build a brighter future for themselves and for the nation.

AIEF provides scholarships that enable Indigenous students to attend leading Australian schools and universities, as well as mentoring and career support to ensure students make a successful transition from school to further studies or employment, productive careers and fulfilling lives.

A product of a strong partnership between the Australian Government and the private sector, AIEF is building a $140 million fund to open the doors to leading schools and universities for 7,000 young Indigenous Australians. 

AIEF Programs
AIEF provides scholarships and support through its two core programs, the AIEF Scholarship Program and the AIEF Pathways Program.

The AIEF Scholarship Program provides scholarships which empower Indigenous students to pursue their education at some of Australia’s best schools and universities. Students supported by the program access high quality education in culturally inclusive environments, where they develop the skills and confidence to fulfil their potential and make the most of their opportunities.

The AIEF Pathways Program prepares students on AIEF scholarships for life post-school and supports their transition from school through tertiary studies or employment into productive and fulfilling careers.

The Model
Sustainability - AIEF operates a long-term, sustainable Indigenous education program within a framework of highly effective management, transparency and accountability. 

Transparency - AIEF publishes detailed Annual Reports including financial accounts and information about the programs, Partner Schools and scholarship students.

Efficiency - AIEF allocates 15% of income to its operating reserve and 85% to the AIEF Scholarship Fund and has spent an amount equivalent to just 2.1% of its scholarship funding on total costs to date (after other income generated by AIEF for costs is taken into account), making it one of the most efficient, low cost non-profit organisations in Australia.