Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship 2027 in Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Nations (Fully Funded)

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The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship 2027 is now accepting applications from Indigenous and Pacific leaders, changemakers, and allies across Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and eligible Pacific Island nations. The fellowship offers a fully funded leadership development experience that includes a fee-free Master’s degree or Graduate Certificate, travel support, stipends, and access to a global network of social change leaders.

Hosted by the University of Melbourne in partnership with the University of Auckland, the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity (AFSE) Fellowship focuses on Indigenous and Pacific knowledge systems, social change leadership, and community-driven impact. The fellowship is designed for mid-career professionals, community leaders, and individuals working to improve outcomes for Indigenous and Pacific peoples.

The AFSE Fellowship combines academic study, leadership development, and practical social change projects. Fellows spend most of the year in their home communities while participating in intensive in-person modules across Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Island countries. The program supports leaders who are already creating change and want to strengthen their impact through education, collaboration, and lifelong networking opportunities.

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Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship 2027

Host Countries

Australia
Aotearoa New Zealand
Pacific Island Nations

Host Institutions

University of Melbourne
University of Auckland

Fellowship Duration

1 Year Foundation Program

Number of Fellows

Up to 20 Fellows

Application Deadline

27 July 2026

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What is the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship?

The Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship is part of the global Atlantic Fellows network established through the vision of philanthropist Charles “Chuck” Feeney. The program supports Indigenous and Pacific leaders who are working on initiatives that improve social equity and strengthen communities.

During the Foundation Year, Fellows complete a fee-free academic qualification while developing a Social Change Initiative that addresses a real challenge within their community, organization, or sector.

After completing the program, Fellows join a global network of more than 1,100 Atlantic Fellows from over 70 countries.

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Benefits of the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship 2027

Selected Fellows will receive:

Fee-free Master’s Degree in Social Change Leadership or Graduate Certificate
Generous fellowship stipend
Full travel support for all required in-person modules
Accommodation during fellowship activities
Access to academic mentoring and study support
Leadership development opportunities
Membership in the global Atlantic Fellows network
Participation in international Atlantic Fellows events and summits
Ongoing support for Social Change Initiatives after graduation

Also Check: NIHR Global Advanced Fellowship 2026

Fellowship Program Structure

The Foundation Year is delivered through:

Five intensive in-person learning modules
Fortnightly online tutorials
Community-based learning experiences
Academic coursework and assessments
Development of a Social Change Initiative

Fellows are expected to spend approximately 40 days attending in-person sessions throughout the year.

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Planned 2027 Modules:

Module 1: Melbourne, Australia (February 2027)
Module 2: New Zealand (April 2027)
Module 3: Australia and Online (June 2027)
Module 4: Pacific Islands (August 2027)
Module 5: Melbourne, Australia (October 2027)

Social Change Initiative

A Social Change Initiative is the core component of the fellowship. Each Fellow develops a practical project that addresses a real issue affecting Indigenous or Pacific communities.

Projects may focus on:

Public policy
Education
Health
Climate action
Community development
Media and storytelling
Indigenous leadership
Economic development

The initiative allows Fellows to apply their learning directly to community-based solutions and long-term impact.

Eligibility Criteria for the Atlantic Fellows for Social Equity Fellowship 2027

Applicants must:

Be a citizen or permanent resident of Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, or an eligible Pacific Island nation
Hold an undergraduate degree or have 5–8 years of social change work experience
Demonstrate leadership experience and community engagement
Be proficient in English
Meet the University of Melbourne’s English language requirements
Be available to attend all fellowship modules
Not be enrolled in another educational program in January 2027
Not currently participating in another Atlantic Fellowship program