The second round of Stanwell’s First Nations Scholarship is now accepting applications, open to eligible applicants who live in or have a connection to the South Burnett region, with scholarships to commence in early 2026.
Earlier this year, Stanwell proudly announced the first recipients of their First Nations Scholarship, an initiative designed to assist South Burnett students as they pursue higher education in fields related to the energy industry.
Queensland University of Technology students Sienna Murray and Mia Sandow will receive financial assistance for the duration of their degree (up to four years), along with a mentoring program and vacation work opportunities, as the first scholarship recipients.
“For me, it means opening a lot more pathways and connections for furthering opportunities for the jobs I want and the jobs I’ll be able to do in the future. And also, and inspiration for a lot of people who want to do the same thing as I am,” Sienna Murray said. “My advice would be to just go for it. As long as you have a goal, you can do anything.”
Stanwell General Manager Southern Generation, Mick Joy, said the initiative encouraged meaningful career pathways for First Nations people, helping them to contribute to the long-term positive outcomes for their communities.
“We received many high-calibre applications this year and we were keen to be part of the learning journey of all the shortlisted applicants in some way. Fortunately, we have been able to offer work experience opportunities aligned with the field of study at the Stanwell corporate office not only to the two successful recipients, but also the two shortlisted candidates.” Mr Joy said.
“We’re delighted to see so many ambitious local students who are eager to further their education and potentially commence their careers with Stanwell.”
Stanwell has worked closely with the Wakka Wakka Native Title Aboriginal Corporation Board, Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council, Cherbourg Elders Advisory Group and the education community to bring the scholarship to life.
As part of Stanwell’s long-standing partnership with the Cherbourg Aboriginal Shire Council and in support of their shared commitment, the council also contributed a financial grant to support the two shortlisted candidates.
Cherbourg Mayor Bruce Simpson said it was all about empowering Cherbourg’s young mob to chase their dreams and become the future leaders our communities need.
“We’re proud to back Stanwell in giving our young people real opportunities to learn, grow and build a strong future,” Mayor Simpson said.
The four students, who are studying Bachelor of Visual Arts, Bachelor of Communications, Bachelor of Business and Entrepreneurship and Bachelor of Justice, will join the Stanwell Corporate offices in November, working across the Brand and Marketing, Retail and Technology, Business Partnerships and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and People and Culture teams.
Applications are now open for the second round of the scholarship, available to First Nations people residing in the South Burnett who are studying (or planning to study) full-time, and recent school-leavers, can demonstrate service to community, and have started university studies or are due to start studies this year.
The support is to assist while living and studying away from the region, and the study should relate to the energy sector in some way.
Stanwell offers several scholarship pathways at certain intervals. The Cid Burke Scholarship will also be available for commencement in 2026, which is for South Burnett students studying full-time at university in health, safety or environment.
Applications will close Friday, 28 November 2025. For more information and to apply, visit: stanwell.com/careers-at-stanwell
