Shalom Gamarada Scholarship Program

The Shalom Gamarada Scholarship Program was established to close the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians through contributing to higher education and increasing the number of Indigenous professionals. It addresses the serious educational and socio-economic disadvantages which many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students face by providing support for students studying long-haul degrees to live in an academic, personal and inclusive community at Shalom College. Since the program started in January 2005, 47 students have graduated, including 23 Aboriginal doctors and 10 lawyers. Gamarada residents have enjoyed a pass rate of well over 90% in the past 7 years, exceeding that of non-Indigenous Australians. Most of the Gamarada residents are studying long-haul degrees like Medicine and Law and compete against the brightest students from around Australia and the world. The scholarship is awarded based on financial need, course of study, past leadership, cultural and sporting achievements, and commitment to Shalom's collegiate community. All applicants must be Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students studying long-haul degrees while living at Shalom College.