Scholarship Awarding University:
Several Universities
Type of degree:
Master’s and PhD
Scholarship Deadline:
Applications for this scholarship will end on the
Scholarship Summary:
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship supports Australian individuals who are undertaking post-graduate study that will ultimately make a difference to Australia in one of four areas; technology and innovation, fostering Australian-Asian ties, reducing Australia's environmental impact, and creating a more inclusive country.
As well as your studies, the scholarship provides a nine-month Leadership Development Program which will build on your personal strengths and give you the insights, learning and inspiration you need to make your mark on the world. 17 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships are awarded every year.
Scholarship Applicant Criteria:
To be eligible for a Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, you must:
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident (New Zealand citizens who are not also Australian citizens are not eligible to apply);
• Have completed an undergraduate degree after 1 January 2021, OR will complete by 31 December 2026;
• Have achieved or are on track to achieve an average result of H1 or H2A equivalent (approx. 75 WAM);
• Have chosen to undertake a Master by coursework or research or a PhD at one of the partner universities with demonstrated world-class capability in the proposed area of study;
Partner universities include;
• Study in an area that will contribute to the future of Australia in one of the Trust’s priority funding areas: Asia-Pacific Leadership, Innovation for Impact, Connected and Stronger Society and Sustainable Futures.
• Must be commencing study by 31 July 2027. You must not have commenced your postgraduate degree.
• Include in your proposed program of study international opportunities which will develop your leadership skills and global networks, such as study tours for the purpose of research, attending a short course or conference, a period of internship or volunteering.
• Have a worthy and viable post-study plan that benefits Australia.
Selection criteria will be based on the following;
a) Demonstrated academic excellence and are eager to undertake a PhD or full time Masters at one of nine universities, in a field of well above world standard.
b) Passionate about strengthening Australia's ties with Asia, driving technology and innovation, reducing Australia's environmental impact or creating a more inclusive country.
c) With a bold vision to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Australia who can articulate this vision and how postgraduate study will help make it real.
d) Possessing a desire and potential to lead.
e) Keen to be inspired by others, build networks and collaborate across diverse disciplines.
f) Confident in taking on challenges.
g) A desire to be part of and contribute to the Westpac 100 Scholars Network.
Value of Scholarship:
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship provides the following benefits:
• up to AUD$120,000 in scholarship funding over 2-3 years to cover costs including course fees, living expenses, learning experiences and travel expenses
• a bespoke Leadership Development Program designed to foster potential of emerging leaders by building on your unique strengths and developing capabilities for success. It includes two residentials during the nine-month program
• opportunity to add a global context to your education, with tailored international experiences of up to six months
Scholarship Application Guide:
To apply;
i. All applications must be submitted through . Supporting documentation required as part of the online application:
- A CV of no more than two pages of 10 point Arial font and line spacing 1.5;
- A photo (headshot) of the applicant;
- (For PhD or Master by Research applicants only): A letter of support from from either your supervisor, Dean of the Faculty or Head of School or equivalent;
- Certified copy of all university academic transcripts;
- Two references are required using the reference templates which are located on the Westpac Scholars Trust website. The referees selected should be people who consent to being contacted by the Trust:
- The first is an Academic Reference and needs to be completed by a person who is familiar with the applicant's academic record and understands the importance of their study program.
- The second is a Personal Reference and needs to be completed by a person who can demonstrate that the applicant has the attributes of a Westpac Scholar. This can be a previous work colleague or manager, however, should not be a family member or a person who currently or previously reported directly to the applicant;
ii. Applicants may be required to present proof of citizenship or permanent residency at any time during the selection process. Applications received without the above-mentioned documentation will not be considered by the Trust. Templates for the supporting documents are available on the Westpac Scholars Trust Website.
iii. Selected finalists must be able to attend the interviews with the National Selection Panel in Sydney (Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 November). Westpac Scholars Trust will cover domestic travel costs for finalist to attend.
iv. Applicants must be able to attend the Future Leaders Scholars Leadership Development Program in Melbourne from 14-18 February, 2027.
v. Applicants must be able to attend the Westpac Scholars Summit from 27 - 29 April 2027.
Please note: A candidate does not need to have received an offer of a place at a participating Australian university prior to submitting an application, however, if an applicant is successful in being selected for a Future Leaders Scholarship, the award of the Scholarship will be conditional upon receiving official confirmation from a participating university of a place in the proposed program of study.
Scholarship Website:
Find further information on this scholarship opportunity at the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship Page.