NATSIMO and SAE University College announce scholarships

Two fully funded tuition scholarships valued at over $60,000

Open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander APRA AMCOS members until 12:00AM (AEDT) Sunday 1 December 2024

The National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Music Office (NATSIMO) and SAE University College have announced two fully funded tuition scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander APRA AMCOS members.

Worth over $60,000, there are two places available to take part in a Diploma of Audio Production in 2025. One recipient will have the option to study at any SAE campus in Australia and receive $5,000 in study support, while the other will be awarded a scholarship to study specifically at the Byron Bay SAE campus, including fully funded accommodation for two trimesters.

Nathaniel Andrew, Senior Manager at NATSIMO, explains: “These scholarships provide an incredible opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander music creators to access an exceptional level of creative and professional training to hone their technical skills, expand their industry knowledge and unlock new opportunities for their own career growth.

“At NATSIMO, our mission is to not only empower artists, producers and creatives, but to also help develop true leaders within the Australian music community. Amazing opportunities like this with SAE University College really help us to achieve that mission.”

2025 will be the second year for this scholarship opportunity. Gamilaraay composer, vocalist and electronic artist, Amelia Thompson (THOM), was the recipient of the first NATSIMO & SAE University College Production Scholarship in 2024.

Dr Luke McMillan, General Manager, SAE University College, adds: “We’re thrilled to continue our valued partnership with NATSIMO this year, building on the success of our collaboration to support Indigenous students in creative industries.

“Together, we are proud to announce a second scholarship, further empowering NATSIMO’s community by offering greater opportunities for education and growth. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to nurturing creative talent and fostering inclusivity across Australia.”

The 102827H Diploma of Audio Production course offers students the unique opportunity to learn from expert practitioners by engaging in a collaborative learning environment where they apply their skills in real-life scenarios, utilising the latest tools and software.

Students work with recording and mixing techniques using hardware and software, live sound concepts, core principles of sound production, scholarly techniques for higher education, and develop an understanding of the various aspects within the audio and music industries. They will graduate with technical skills in audio production, employability skills, introductory project management skills, industry awareness and scholarly skills.

Applications for the scholarships are open now until 12:00AM (AEDT) Sunday 1 December 2024.