2026 OCHRe News
25 February
Dear OCHRe Members and Friends
We wish you a safe and happy weekend. If you have news you would like to share, please send it through to the team at ochre@uq.edu.au by Wednesday 2pm AEST.
OCHRe Central Hub www.ochrenetwork.org
News:
Maali Hub
Indigenous EMCR Health Research Related Support Fund - 2026
Maali Hub is excited to announce the return of the Indigenous EMCR Health Research Related Support Fund for 2026!
This annual initiative supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Early to Mid‑Career Researchers (EMCRs) by providing targeted funding to strengthen health research. The Maali Hub EMCR Health Research Related Support Fund offers flexible support across project costs, salary/workload relief, professional development, and both national and international conference participation.
Whether you are looking to advance a research project, build your skills, or share your work on a national or global stage, this fund aims to support EMCRs to thrive in their research journeys.
There are 5 categories for funding:
Research support costs, up to $10,000
Workload relief funding, up to $10,000
Training costs, up to $5000
International conferences, up to $5000
National conferences, up to $2500
Applications are open until 31st May 2026.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Maali Hub at Edith Cowan University, maalihub@ecu.edu.au
To access the application form and guidelines please follow this link: https://www.ochrenetwork.org/scholarships
NEXGEN Hub
Exciting Opportunities for OCHRe Investigators!
CBR Grant Launch
NEXGEN are delighted to announce the launch of our Community Based Researcher (CBR) Grant Program as part of our OCHRe NEXGEN Hub. This grant program has been created to support and strengthen the development pathways of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander CBRs.
The two-tier funding structure is designed to help CBRs grow their skills, broaden their research experience, and deepen their impact within their communities. This program offers Investigators a meaningful opportunity to champion CBRs and actively contribute to their professional growth.
Thank you to all Investigators for your continued dedication to nurturing the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers. Your support plays a vital role in shaping strong and sustainable research futures across OCHRe and the NEXGEN Hub.
The offer will be offered exclusively to OCHRe Investigators (CIs and AIs) named on the NHMRC Targeted Call for Research application (APP 2005944).
This is a continuous Open Round which opens on 6 February 2026. Funds will be available throughout the year until 11:59 pm on 30 October, or until fully allocated, whichever comes first.
If you are interested in more information and/or applying for a CBR Grant 2026, please follow this link: https://www.ochrenetwork.org/scholarships
KPI Outcomes Project Boost
We’re excited to launch Round 2 of the NEXGEN Hub’s KPI Outcomes Project Boost Grants of up to $30,000 each are available to support projects that helps deliver one or more of our 2024–2026 KPIs specified below.
Supporting school leavers enrolled in VET Certificate course with an annual scholarship to enhance their research experience.
Supporting Community-based researchers completing a VET Certificate courses at Level II or above and Diploma / Graduate Diploma courses with an annual scholarship to enhance their research experience.
Providing Training & Development sessions.
We will award up 10 grants to this round.
This is your opportunity to make a real impact - to strengthen the next generation of First Nations health researchers, and help build capacity, capability, and connections across the OCHRe Network.
Your project might involve:
Supporting students or community-based researchers
Delivering innovative training and development opportunities
Expanding our network and strengthening collaborations, or
Enhancing access to knowledge and research resources.
The offer will be offered exclusively to OCHRe Investigators (CIs and AIs) named on the NHMRC Targeted Call for Research application (APP 2005944).
This is a continuous Open Round which opens on 6 February 2026. Funds will be available throughout the year until 11:59 pm on 30 October, or until fully allocated, whichever comes first.
If you are interested in more information and/or applying for a KPI Outcomes Project Boost Grant 2026, please follow this link: https://www.ochrenetwork.org/scholarships
Health Research Experience Scholarships Program 2026 (round 3)
NEXGEN are pleased to announce the launch of Health Research Experience Scholarships Program (Round 3) 2026 as part of our OCHRe NEXGEN Hub.
For this round, NEXGEN Hub will offer 12 Health Research Experience Scholarships Program (Scholarships) valued at $10,000 each. These Scholarships will provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders enrolled in an undergraduate degree (including Honours) or a postgraduate coursework program, to gain or enhance their research experience and skills.
The offer will be offered exclusively to Investigators (CIs and AIs) named on the NHMRC Targeted Call for Research application (APP 2005944: OCHRe).
This is a continuous Open Round which opens on 6 February 2026 and closes on 30 October 2026 or when all Scholarships have been awarded, whichever is the sooner.
If you are interested in more information and/or applying for a Health Research Experience Scholarships 2026, please follow this link: https://www.ochrenetwork.org/scholarships.
Opportunities
Click here to view all vacancies and opportunities
NHMRC Sapphire profile requirements
NHMRC have instituted a new Sapphire requirement: For all newly awarded NHMRC grants moving forward, CIAs must have a valid ORCiD recorded in their Sapphire profile to be eligible to hold NHMRC funded grants. Please check your Sapphire profile and update your ORCiD details as required.
National Health and Medical Research Strategy (National Strategy)
Webinar recording is now available
Available here: National Health and Medical Research Strategy Chair Webinar 3 – 1 September 2025 - YouTube
National Statement of Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2025
The National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research 2025 was issued on 6 March 2025. The 2025 National Statement will take effect, and replace the 2023 National Statement, from 1 October 2025.
Co-authored by NHMRC, the Australian Research Council (ARC) and Universities Australia (UA), the National Statement is Australia’s principal human research guideline setting out the requirements for the ethical design, review and conduct of human research in Australia.
The 2025 National Statement and a summary of amendments can be found here. The major changes in this update are to Section 4. The National Statement was developed by NHMRC’s Australian Health Ethics Committee and was informed by public consultation in accordance with the requirements of the National Health and Medical Research Council Act 1992.
Scholarships & Bursaries:
www.ochrenetwork.org/opportunities
The University of Sydney School of Public Health Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion (SEWB)
A unique opportunity to receive a postgraduate degree from The University of Sydney School of Public Health.
Are you an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthworker with an interest in social and emotional wellbeing or mental health? Do you want to take your career to the next level? This course may be for you. SEWB describes the holistic understanding of health that many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have. It includes cultural, spiritual, social and emotional wellbeing of the individual, family and wider community. It also considers a variety of factors that contribute to health such as policy and the environment. Promoting SEWB over mental health is a more effective and all- encompassing way to address the myriad factors that contribute to health and wellbeing. Apply now and be on the path to joining our cohort of graduates, many of whom have fulfilling careers in a variety of sectors including community, health, government and education.
For further information, click here
FROM LAST MONTH
IMHC26 Scholarship
Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association
The Australian & New Zealand Mental Health Association are awarding 3 in-person and 10 virtual delegate scholarships to attend the 2026 International Mental Health Conference.
The following individuals are eligible to apply for a scholarship:
Full Time Students (student ID card must be provided)
Retirees/Unwaged
International Delegates
Lived Experience
Full Time Carers
Senior and Pension Card Holders (ID card must be provided)
Indigenous, Torres Strait Islander, Māori or Pacific Islands descent
Residents of a rural or remote area
People with disability
Applications for scholarships must be submitted by close of business Friday 6 March 2026.
Please note: This is not a registration form to attend the conference. If your application is unsuccessful, you will still be eligible to register.
You will be notified if your application has been successful on or before Wednesday 1 April 2026.
The Association or Conference Committee are not in a position to assist with additional expenses such as flights, accommodation or meals.
*Scholarships are not available for presenters at the conference.
For further information, click here
Aurora Foundation
Aurora Indigenous Pathways Portal
The Internship Program continues to focus on supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander* students and graduates via internships as pathways to jobs in Indigenous organisations and other organisations working in the Indigenous sector.
We are also able to place Indigenous interns at a wide range of organisations, outside of the sector, so long as the placements are relevant to candidates’ study and career aspirations.
The Commonwealth's Culture and Capability Programme will provide financial support via Scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander interns under the Program.
TO VIEW CURRENT APPLICATIONS OPEN, CLICK HERE
If you’re unsure or have questions, the Aurora team is here to help
Webinars, Workshops and
Professional Development
Wungening Aboriginal Corporation
2026 Decolonising Data, Evaluation and Research Korl-Koorl Nakolak (return knowledge)
Following our last forum in November, we’ve been overwhelmed with interest and requests to present our learnings to different organisations and government departments. In response, we’re excited to repeat this one-day event. If you or your colleagues missed out last time, now’s your chance to join us.
This forum will share Wungening’s learnings and highlight how Aboriginal Data Sovereignty principles can be put into action across the community services sector. It will also be an opportunity for funders, policy makers, researchers and evaluators to consider their obligations to Aboriginal communities in this important space.
There are discounted spots exclusively for Elders and for Mob. Use the discount code MOB at checkout
If you have any questions or are no longer able to attend, please email redata@wungening.com.au.
Tickets: $270 (ex gst) per person. Discount for Mob
Date: Thursday 5 March 2026
Time: 8:30am registration for 9:10am start – 4pm AWST
Location: West Coast Eagles, Main Function Room, 42 Bishopsgate St, Lathlain, WA
For more information and to get your tickets, click here
Women’s Health Research, Translation & Impact Network
Workforce Development Program free webinar supporting women researchers in early and mid-career.
~Creating a Diversified Funding Plan~
Funding is essential to building and sustaining a research career. As traditional (category 1) research funding becomes more competitive, having options is critical. This webinar will introduce you to funding opportunities beyond category 1 grants and share tips on how to build a diverse funding portfolio.
Tuesday 24 February, 12.30 pm AEDT, online.
Free registration HERE
Decolonial Perspectives
Online Study Circle
Join Professor Yin Paradies and Victoria McKay of Anam Cara Homestead (www.anamcarahomestead.com.au) in an exploration of decolonial perspectives.
Dates and times: 3-5pm (Melbourne, Australia time)
Saturday 31st Jan 2026
Saturday 28th Feb 2026
Saturday 21st March 2026
Saturday 11th April 2026
Saturday 30th May 2026
Saturday 27th June 2026
This course is suitable for those new to these topics, and as a deepening for those already familiar. How have, and do, people live sustainably and in right relationship with the world? Why, and in what way, is this so different to modern societies? How do we cross the bridge back into the harmony and balance that our deep ancestors enjoyed? Join us in this monthly study circle for a dive into the topics of cosmology, story-telling, gender, nutrition, parenting and sexuality.
Victoria and Yin will seek to curate a 'safe enough' space. We ask that participants hold respect, sensitivity, and kindness in their communication, alongside a capacity to hear opposing viewpoints.
Although each month's topic is stand-alone, as this will be a closed group, we ask that you commit to attend each session throughout the six month period, to the best of your ability. We will provide pre- and post-reading material and resources so we can focus each circle on questions, dialogue, discussion and conversation.
For more information and to get your tickets, click here
Lowitja Institute
Online Courses
These online courses were developed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers. They’re also highly valuable for non-Indigenous people working in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and research sectors.
The following online courses are available:
Indigenous Data Sovereignty
Introduction to Ethics in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research
Community data literacy: Foundations
Introduction to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Research
Introduction to Indigenous Knowledge Translation
Introduction to Evaluation in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Contexts
For more information and to apply click here.
University of Sydney | Central Sydney (Patyegarang) Precinct
Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion
Designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers, our Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion aims to improve Indigenous health at a community level. This program will give you the knowledge and skills to identify community needs, develop a plan of action and execute it.
Our program is for Indigenous health practitioners who already have a role in promoting the health of their communities or hold equivalent qualifications. It is designed to give practitioners skills they need to help prevent illness and reduce the harms in the community.
For more information and to apply click here.
ALIGN (Australian Alliance for Indigenous Genomics)
Launched ALIGN’s Online Course - Genomics Our Way | An Introduction to Genomics Research with Indigenous Australians
ALIGN were able to develop and deliver this first-of-its-kind course through the ALIGN network, the OCHRE network, with financial support from the Australian Academy of Science–Theo Murphy Initiative (AAS-TMI).
What’s next?
Register now and take the course! https://indigenousgenomics.com.au/courses/genomicsourway/
Please share it with your colleagues, networks, and communities.
Follow the new ALIGN LinkedIn business page and help us amplify the campaign.
Tell us what you think - we’d love your feedback and reflections once you’ve completed the course.
‘Genomics Our Way’ is more than a course—it’s a statement about how genomics research with Indigenous Australians should be done.
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CONFERENCES 2026
Aboriginal Health Showcase | 23-24 March 2026 | Melbourne
Registrations Now Open!
The MACH Aboriginal Leadership Group invites you to the second MACH Aboriginal Health Showcase in March 2026. This free event will highlight Aboriginal-led programs and initiatives addressing health priorities across our Community.
In 2026 we’re excited to partner with Monash Partners Health Translation Network and Western Alliance Academic Health Science Centre to build on the success of the first Showcase and bring you an even more deadly event!
The Showcase will be held over two days with the second day designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander attendees only with a focus on capability building and networking. Please note that day two will be held in person only.
Dates:
Monday 23 March (all attendees welcome) 8.30am – 4pm (in person and online)
Tuesday 24 March (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander attendees only) 9.30am – 2pm (in person only)
Location: Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St Melbourne (see map) and online
Cost: Free
Seeking abstracts from presenters
The Showcase organising committee is seeking Expressions of Interest from representatives of MACH, Monash Partners and Western Alliance partner health services, research institutes, universities and their collaborators to present on Aboriginal-led health research, healthcare programs, initiatives and education that aim to address the health needs of Community.
See Abstract guidelines and further event details
Abstract submissions close on 9 February 2025.
A program will be circulated once finalised.
For further information please contact mach-admin@unimelb.edu.au or 0421 705 422.
National Indigenous Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Conference
24th-26th March 2026 | Stamford Grand Adelaide
For more information, click here
PSANZ + FAOPS 2026
22-25 March 2026 | Perth
Separated by Seas | Connected by Care
World Indigenous Cancer Conference
20-24 April 2026 | TĀMAKI MAKAURAU, Auckland, AOTEAROA
The World Indigenous Cancer Network and Hei Āhuru Mōwai Māori Cancer Leadership Aotearoa invite you to TĀMAKI MAKAURAU, Auckland, AOTEAROA, New Zealand for the 2026 World Indigenous Cancer Conference (W.I.C.C. 2026) at the Due Drop Events Centre, 21—23 April 2026.
This promises to be a joyful gathering with more than 600 researchers, clinicians, whānau (family), rangatahi (youth), and advocates coming together in a space of deep connection, learning, and cultural celebration.
For more information, click here
2026 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health Conference
Seeing Our Way: Innovation, Excellence and Healing
We’re proud to support the 2026 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health Conference: Seeing Our Way: Innovation, Excellence and Healing, a milestone event marking 10 years of national leadership, collaboration and progress in First Nations eye health.
Taking place 11–13 May 2026 at the MCG on Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country in Naarm/Melbourne, the conference brings together community leaders, health professionals, researchers and policymakers to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership and strengthen pathways towards equitable eye health and vision care.
Abstract submissions and registrations are now open.
Join us as we reflect on a decade of impact and look ahead to the future. Learn more at www.fneha.com.au.
For more information, click here
AIATSIS SUMMIT 2026
1 – 5 June | Gold Coast
Our Truth. Our Power. Our Future.
For more information, click here
18th World Congress on Public Health
6 - 9 September 2026 | South Africa
Health Without Borders: Equity, Inclusion, and Sustainability
For more information, click here
The Indigenous Wellbeing Conference
12-13 October | Ngunnawal Country (Canberra)
On Our Terms: Indigenous Leadership, Wellbeing, and Future
For more information, click here
World Indigenous Suicide Prevention Conference 2026
4-7 November | Kirikiriroa, Aotearoa (Hamilton, New Zealand)
Call for Abstracts now open
For more information, click here
CATSINaM National Conference | 17 – 19 November 2026 |
Mparntwe, NT (Alice Springs Convention Centre)
The Power We Carry Protecting and Growing Our Young Ones – Anwerne rlterrke atnyenetyeke Anwerne ampe mape arntarntaretyeke.
For more information, click here
IAHA National Conference
30 November – 2 December 2026 | Boorloo (Perth)
For more information, click here
CONFERENCES 2027
Lowitja Conference | Larrakia Country | 8-10 June 2027
Save the date | 8-10 June 2027
Subscribe for conference news updates | lowitjaconference.org.au
2027 will mark 30 years since the Lowitja Institute began in Darwin as the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal and Tropical Health, so it will be a very special homecoming.
Although this event is not for 18 months, we know an early ‘save the date’ announcement assists attendees with planning bookings and organising attendance. After a record-breaking 1,370 delegates at the 4th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference on Kaurna Country in June 2025, we’re expecting even more registrations for the Darwin Convention Centre event, scheduled from 8-10 June 2027.
2027 will mark 30 years since the Lowitja Institute began in Darwin as the Cooperative Research Centre for Aboriginal and Tropical Health, so it will be a very special homecoming.
Although this event is not for 18 months, we know an early ‘save the date’ announcement assists attendees with planning bookings and organising attendance. After a record-breaking 1,370 delegates at the 4th International Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Conference on Kaurna Country in June 2025, we’re expecting even more registrations for the Darwin Convention Centre event, scheduled from 8-10 June 2027.
We look forward to you joining us in the Northern Territory for an unforgettable week of knowledge-sharing, culture, and insights.
For more details and Lowitja Conference announcements, keep an eye on lowitjaconference.org.au.
Funding Opportunities
Welcome Genomics in Context Awards
Collaborative research at the intersection of genomics, humanities,
social sciences, and bioethics
These awards will support transdisciplinary teams to catalyse research discoveries at the intersection of genomics, humanities, social sciences and bioethics. Funded projects will be given the time and resources to create new research agendas and explore innovative ways of working.
Closes: 16 March 2026
For further information, click here
GRANT CONNECT
All Australian Government grant opportunities are advertised on Grant Connect including NHMRC, MRFF, ARC and many other grants. Below are some current opportunities.
For current list of all grants on Grant Connect click here.
Wellcome Genomics in Context Awards
Collaborative research at the intersection of genomics, humanities, social sciences, and bioethics
These awards will support transdisciplinary teams to catalyse research discoveries at the intersection of genomics, humanities, social sciences and bioethics. Funded projects will be given the time and resources to create new research agendas and explore innovative ways of working.
Closes: 16 March 2026
For further information, click here
Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF)
MRFF - EPCDRI – 2025 Childhood Mental Health Research Grant Opportunity
The Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Emerging Priorities and Consumer-Driven Research initiative aims to enable or support research that improves patient care and translation of new discoveries, and encourage collaboration between consumers and researchers. Funding from this Initiative will support the development of new diagnoses, treatments and cures, and the translation of new discoveries into clinical practice.
Grant Activity Timeframe: Within 5 years of execution of the grant schedule.
Total Amount Available (AUD): $20,000,000.00
Estimated Grant Value (AUD): From $0.00 to $5,000,000.00
Minimum Data Closes: 25-Feb-2026 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
Close Date & Time: 25-Mar-2026 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
For further information, click here
MRFF – CTA Initiative – 2025
Clinical Trials Activity Grant
The Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Clinical Trials Activity Initiative aims to:
improve the evidence base supporting clinical care
help patients access trials relevant to their health circumstances
enable researchers to bring international trials to Australian patients.
Grant Activity Timeframe: Within 7 years of execution of the grant schedule.
Total Amount Available (AUD): $61,000,000.00
Estimated Grant Value (AUD): From $0.00 to $5,000,000.00
Minimum Data Closes: 04-March-2026 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
Close Date & Time: 1-Apr-2026 5:00 pm (ACT Local Time)
For further information, click here
MRFF 2022 Frontier Health and Medical Research Grant Opportunity
This grant opportunity offers funding to support medical research and medical innovation programs of research that deliver a ‘moonshot’ by creating a treatment for a currently serious and incurable health condition, through a series of linked projects. The program of research can propose to develop novel health technologies and/or re-purpose existing health technologies in a novel way.
We expect that expressions of interest will close on 31 March 2026, with the last grants awarded by 30 June 2027.
Total Amount Available (AUD): $400,000,000
Estimated Grant Value (AUD): $25,000,000
For further information, click here.
Employment
Lowitja Institute
Program Manager, Policy
Shape the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health by leading a passionate policy team at Lowitja Institute, based in Naarm. As Program Manager, Policy, you’ll guide and empower a high performing team to turn research into action, elevate community voices and influence national policies that improve health outcomes. This full time role offers a hybrid working arrangement with in-office collaboration days on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and the flexibility to work from home on Monday and Friday.
This role is classified as Level 9 role under Lowitja Institute’s current Enterprise Agreement (with a base salary of $131,046).
About the role
As Program Manager, Policy, you will lead and inspire a dynamic policy team delivering Lowitja Institute’s policy and advocacy priorities. Reporting directly to the Executive Manager, Policy and Consulting, you will oversee strategic projects from conception to impact, ensuring research is translated into practical evidence-based policy. This role involves building strong partnerships across sectors, shaping national policy discussions in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and representing Lowitja Institute in forums, committees and stakeholder engagements. You will also foster a collaborative, culturally safe and high-performing team environment, supporting professional development and wellbeing while driving outcomes aligned with Lowitja Institute’s 2024–2027 Strategic Plan.
Location: Collingwood, VIC
Employment Type: Full-Time
For further information, click here
For further information and to view position description, click here
University of Notre Dame Broome Campus
Shape the future of healthcare in the Kimberley
The University of Notre Dame Australia is expanding its Vocational Education and Traingin VET program in Broome, we’re looking for passionate and dedcated professionals to joion our mission of empowering the next generation of health care workers in regional and remote communities.W
We are recruiting fo the following key roles:
Program Coordinator (Nursing)
Lead the delivery and growth of our Nursing VET Programs, ensuring excellence in currivulum design, compliance and student outcomes.
Student Support Officer
Bring your clinical experience and teaching passion to the classroom.
Be the friendly face and to-to person for our students.
