Interview with 2026 John Koowarta Scholarship Winner, Tiarna Williams
8 December 2025 
What does it mean to you to be awarded the 2026 John Koowarta Scholarship?
Being awarded the 2026 John Koowarta Scholarship is an honour that holds deep personal, cultural, and professional meaning for me. As a proud Dharawal–Awabakal woman who has grown up in a low socio-economic status household, I understand the sacrifices and strength required to pursue higher education. This scholarship represents more than financial support. It is recognition of my lived experience, perseverance, and commitment to advocating for First Nations communities. It will go a long way toward easing some of the financial pressures that come with balancing study, work, and community involvement, and it allows me to focus more intently on the areas of law I am passionate about.
The scholarship also connects me to the legacy of John Koowarta, whose determination in challenging racial discrimination helped pave the way for Indigenous land rights in Australia. Knowing that my aspirations align with the values this scholarship represents reinforces my belief in the importance of using the law as a tool for justice and equality. It motivates me to continue pushing for systemic change, particularly for vulnerable First Nations communities. It also encourages me to honour this recognition through meaningful contributions to my community and the broader legal profession.
What areas of law are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about areas of law that promote justice, equality, and empowerment for Indigenous peoples and other vulnerable groups. Human rights law is at the core of my interests, particularly where it intersects with Indigenous justice and the lived experiences of disadvantaged First Nations children.
My academic and professional work has consistently exposed me to the structural inequities faced by Indigenous communities, which has strengthened my resolve to focus on legal pathways that address these injustices. I am also strongly drawn to advocacy aimed at improving access to justice. Many First Nations people face significant barriers in navigating the legal system, and I believe culturally informed, community-centred legal support is essential.
In addition, I have developed a strong interest in diplomacy and foreign affairs, immigration and refugee law, criminal law, and international development. These areas reflect my long-standing desire to engage with global issues, promote inclusivity, and contribute to international conversations around Indigenous rights.
My passion for these fields is grounded not only in academic curiosity but in lived experience. Having witnessed and experienced racial discrimination and inequality from a young age, I feel a responsibility to use the law to improve outcomes for communities whose voices are often marginalised.
What career aspirations do you have after graduation?
After graduating, my primary goal is to complete my practical legal training and continue working in roles that contribute to social justice, with a specific focus on Indigenous rights. I intend to pursue a Master of Laws specialising in human rights law and policy, as this will deepen my understanding and equip me with the skills to work effectively in advocacy, law reform, and community-focused legal environments.
In the long term, I aim to work internationally, ideally within the United Nations or a global NGO focused on human rights and development. I aspire to advocate for Indigenous peoples on the world stage and contribute to efforts that empower global Indigenous cultures through improved access to justice, policy reform, and the sharing of legal knowledge. I also hope to continue working directly with First Nations communities in Australia, whether through Indigenous legal services, community legal centres, or research roles focused on improving legal education.
My professional experiences so far, particularly my work with the Evonne Goolagong Foundation and the National Justice Project, have shaped a clear desire to use the law as a tool to uplift vulnerable communities. Ultimately, I want a career defined by service, advocacy, and meaningful change.
Who is one person that inspires you and why?
The one person in my life who inspires me more than anyone else is my mum, Donna. Growing up in a single-parent, single-income household, I witnessed firsthand the sacrifices she made to ensure I had opportunities that were never available to her. She consistently puts my well-being and education first, even when doing so means facing financial or personal challenges of her own.
Her resilience, determination, and selflessness have shaped my understanding of what it means to persevere, to lead with compassion, and to never lose sight of your goals. My mum taught me the importance of education, independence, and community. My mum has been a primary and high-school teacher for over 30 years and personally home-schooled me for 9 years.
As a result, I know the significant value a quality education can bring to your life, and I thank my mum for sharing that with me. She reminds me every day that my identity as an Indigenous woman is something to be proud of, and she encourages me to use my voice to advocate for those in need. She has always believed deeply in my potential, even during times when I doubted myself. Her belief has been a motivating force throughout my law degree and my work with Indigenous communities. Her example inspires me to strive for a career that uplifts others. Everything I achieve, whether academically, personally, or professionally, reflects the values she instilled in me and the foundation she worked tirelessly to build.
From your perspective, what are some of the key legal issues and challenges the legal profession needs to focus on?
From my standpoint, one of the most pressing issues the legal profession must continue to address is the systemic inequality that disproportionately affects First Nations peoples. This includes the overrepresentation of Indigenous youth in the criminal justice system, ongoing racial discrimination, and the persistent barriers Indigenous communities face in accessing justice.
A stronger commitment to culturally responsive legal services is essential, as is greater investment in legal aid and community legal centres that serve regional and disadvantaged communities.
Another challenge is the need to embed Indigenous perspectives into legal education and practice. Through my work integrating Indigenous content into the law curriculum at my university, I have seen firsthand how transformative it can be when the law recognises diverse perspectives and engages respectfully with Indigenous knowledge. Drawing from a policy paper I am currently writing on this topic, the profession also needs to continue pushing for policy reform that upholds the principles of self-determination and free, prior and informed consent.
This includes ensuring that Indigenous communities are meaningfully involved in decisions that affect their lands, rights, and futures. Strengthening human rights protections more broadly, improving legal literacy in underserved communities, and addressing the rising demand for culturally competent lawyers are all challenges that will require collective dedication and long-term vision.
Any advice to applicants for next year?
My advice for applicants considering applying for this scholarship in the coming years is to be genuine and unapologetically honest in telling your story. This scholarship values authenticity, commitment to community, and the desire to contribute to reconciliation. Don’t be afraid to share the challenges you’ve faced, the sacrifices you’ve made, or the experiences that have shaped your aspirations.
These elements are not weaknesses. They demonstrate resilience, purpose, and a clear sense of identity. Highlight the work you’ve done within your community, your academic interests, and how the scholarship would support your long-term goals. Make clear the impact you hope to have, particularly in advancing justice and empowerment for First Nations peoples.
Importantly, apply with confidence. Many Indigenous students underestimate their achievements or believe their experiences aren’t significant enough. But every story carries value, and your perspective matters. Take the opportunity to show how your lived experience drives your passion for law and your commitment to making a difference. Finally, trust in your potential. This scholarship exists to support students like you who are ready to lead, to serve, and to advocate for meaningful change.
Last Updated on 11/12/2025