Are you a young person in the native title sector? Our Native Title Youth Forum was made for you!

This is a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside other young mob from across the country who are involved in, or passionate about, native title and community leadership.

📅 When: 24–28 August 2026

📍 Where: University of Melbourne, Naarm

👥 Who: First Nations Youth (18–35 years of age)

APPLY HERE

Applications close at 5pm on Sunday, 19th of July 2026.

Please note that applications do not guarantee Forum attendance.

A selection process will be undertaken where interest exceeds positions available.

Please refer to the Applicant Checklist and FAQs for further information.

Download the Application checklist here.

Across the week, participants will participate in:

• Practical governance learning – Build knowledge in governance, leadership, and communication through expert-led theory sessions.
• Hands-on simulation experience – Participate in realistic board and advisory scenarios to develop decision-making, leadership, and teamwork skills.
•  Reflective practice and feedback – Receive facilitator observations, take part in debriefs, and refine skills through structured reflection each day.
• Leadership growth and future planning – Strengthen cultural leadership capability while developing a personal action plan for continued impact beyond the program.

All in a supportive, culturally grounded space designed for young people.

Information Sessions

Once you have applied, you will be required to attend one 30-minute Information Session. Session times are in AEST.

Monday 20^th July

• Evening session: 1:00-1:30pm (AEST), 11:00-11:30pm (AWST)

REGISTER FOR AN INFORMATION SESSION HERE

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your application, please reach out:

Riley Dolman | riley.dolman@nntc.com.au | 0438 252 575

FAQs 

Travel Arrangements 

 In the first instance, successful applicants should reach out to their representative organisation to organise and cover the costs of flights, meals and incidentals outside of the forum days. 

 What support will NNTC provide? 

 To make the forum more accessible, accommodation and meals during the forum will be covered by NNTC from 24th – 28th August.  

 Accommodation for the duration of the Forum 

• Buffet breakfast at the accommodation 

• Catered morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea 

• Cultural activity 

• Welcome dinner on Monday 24th August 

 Additional support may be provided by the NNTC on a case-by-case basis except for travel allowance for meals and incidentals. 

Successful applicants will complete a Travel Form to advise their travel arrangements. Applicants can use this form to request additional travel assistance if required. 

 Please keep in mind when planning that travel may be required on the weekend before and/or after the forum. 

Why is there a Selection Process? 

 Due to limited capacity, with only 40 places available, a selection process ensures a fair and balanced cohort of participants. As the Forum is a first-of-its-kind pilot program, the process is designed to maximise impact by bringing together a diverse group of young people who will benefit most from the experience. 

 The selection also supports: 

• Gender balance across participants 

• Representation from different regions and communities (geographic distribution) 

• A cohort who are committed to actively engaging in the intensive and simulated learning environment 

 We encourage all applicants, including those who may not be selected, to stay connected through the NNTC Youth Network for future opportunities. 

What is the Selection Process? 

 Applicants will be assessed based on their application responses and demonstrated readiness to participate fully in the program. This includes: 

• Attendance at an online information session 

• Demonstrated interest or involvement in native title and leadership 

• Willingness to commit to pre-reading and preparation 

• Readiness to participate in culturally safe, simulated role plays and intensive learning activities 

 Selections will also consider cohort balance, including gender representation, geographic diversity, and ensuring participants are committed and able to engage meaningfully in the program experience. 

 How will I find out if my application is successful? 

 All applicants will receive an email notifying them of the outcome of their application. 

What happens if I am successful or unsuccessful? 

 Successful applicants will receive a link via email to complete their travel requirements and confirm logistics. 

 Unsuccessful applicants may choose to be added to the NNTC Youth Network to stay informed about future training and forum opportunities. 

Image: Caleb Sweeting (SANTS)