Recognising excellence in Aboriginal Education

Gili (pronounced “kill-ee”) is an Eora word meaning “to shine”. It’s a fitting name for these awards, as the recipients are shining examples of excellence in Aboriginal education and training within TAFE NSW.

Nominations can be submitted by either students or teachers and follow a process of endorsement before being assessed by a judging panel comprising both TAFE NSW employees and external stakeholders. Judging is conducted independently against set criteria, with scores collated to determine the award recipients.

Aboriginal students have access to a range of financial assistance options. Under the Smart and Skilled program, Aboriginal students living or working in NSW—including those in identified border postcodes—are eligible for subsidised training places and full fee exemptions.

Additional support is available through scholarships and financial assistance for travel, accommodation, and meals. Aboriginal students may also be eligible for ABSTUDY, a government program that provides financial support specifically for Indigenous students. For more information on how to apply, visit the Services Australia website website.

TAFE NSW offers a wide range of support services for Aboriginal students, including access to dedicated Aboriginal student support staff, specialist study centres, personalised learning plans, and mentoring. These services are designed to create a safe and nurturing environment where Aboriginal students can achieve their goals, develop valuable skills, and progress confidently towards their chosen career paths.

Eligibility criteria vary across the different Gili Awards categories. Generally, students, educators, and industry partners involved in vocational education and training at TAFE NSW are eligible to be nominated or apply.

The Gili Awards feature a range of categories, including student excellence, industry collaboration, and innovation in vocational education and training.

The Gili Awards primarily recognise achievements within the TAFE NSW vocational education and training community. However, certain categories may involve collaboration with external partners. Please refer to the eligibility criteria for each category for further details.

An annual Gili Awards ceremony is held during National Reconciliation Week to shine a spotlight on some of our most outstanding learner and staff achievements.