A new IAG-backed scholarship program will provide $120,000 over three years to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women pursuing careers in sectors including financial services.  

The Leah Armstrong Scholarship will be awarded to two recipients each year until 2028, offering practical support completing studies and moving into work.

The initiative is part of a three-year partnership between IAG and First Nations Economics, aimed at addressing structural and financial barriers affecting Indigenous communities.  

Scholarship recipients can complete paid internships at IAG while studying and will be invited to apply for the insurer’s graduate program.  

“IAG is delighted to partner with First Nations Economics to create real pathways into finance and insurance careers,” CFO William McDonnell said.

“We look forward to supporting the successful applicants through their education and transition into professional roles, building future capability for our organisation and the broader industry.”  

First Nations Economics MD Shaun Cumming says the scholarship “is about opening doors and walking alongside women as they build confidence, capability and careers. Partnering with IAG allows us to strengthen those pathways and connect First Nations women to real opportunities in finance and the corporate sectors, where their leadership and perspectives are needed.”  

This year’s scholars will be announced later this month.