Fellowship for Aboriginal Researchers

The research fellow must make use of the collections of the J.S. Battye Library of West Australian History for a research proposal of their choice on the history of Western Australia.

The Fellowship for Aboriginal Researchers is only open to researchers who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

The successful recipients will receive:
•    $10,000 paid in instalments upon the completion of agreed milestones by 30 November 2024; 
•    Support from State Library Librarians, the Battye Historian and other State Library staff.
•    Access to the State Library collections. 
•    An induction tour and introduction to staff and library facilities. 
•    Use of State Library office space, venues and other equipment as necessary during the residency, at the discretion of the State Library. 
•    Waiver of photocopy and digital copy charges.

The Research Fellow will commence by June 2024 and complete their Fellowship by 30 November 2024.

The recipient will:

•    Produce a report, outlining their experience, detailing the research findings and any new knowledge about State Library collections. 
•    Deposit with the State Library two copies of any work produced through the Fellowship.
•    Be available for publicity purposes, including interviews with the media, to promote the research supported by the Research Fellowships.
•    Contribute to the public programs of the State Library of Western Australia, such as a public lecture.
•    Acknowledge the support of the State Library and the Fellowship in forums, presentations and publications resulting from the Fellowship.

All applications will be assessed by a panel. The panel may interview short-listed applicants. The successful recipients will be announced in June 2024.

Applicants must demonstrate:

1.    A research proposal that enhances knowledge and understanding of the State Library collections of West Australian history.
2.    Research outcomes that demonstrate original research into West Australian history.
3.    A proven ability to meet research outcomes and communicate these outcomes.

All applicants will be informed of the Panel’s decision, which is regarded as final.

The State Library has the right to promote the residency outcomes and it is a condition of the funding that the successful recipients will be available for publicity purposes to promote the outcomes of the residency. 

Applications are open for Western Australian residents who are historians, curators or scholars with demonstrated knowledge and experience in the fields of West Australian history or heritage.

The Fellowship for Aboriginal Researchers is only open to researchers who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander.

Researchers based outside of Western Australia or current employees of the State Library of Western Australia are not eligible to apply. 

Applications open Friday 26 April 2024 and close Friday 17 May 2024.

Applications are to be made online via Submittable. You will need to create a free Submittable account to apply. 

Apply

Application materials

A letter of no more than three pages addressing the criteria outlined under Selection Process  and a curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience must be uploaded as separate documents.

All applicants will receive an automated email confirming receipt of their application. It is recommended that you keep a copy of your application for your records.

For enquiries about the Fellowship for Aboriginal Researchers contact:

John Hughes
Senior Subject Specialist
State Library of Western Australia
Phone: 08 9427 3476
Email: fellowships@slwa.wa.gov.au