Australia’s most forward-thinking scholarship opportunity is now open for international and domestic applicants: the 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship. Designed to empower exceptional individuals committed to creating positive change, this scholarship offers not only funding but an unrivaled leadership journey at some of Australia’s top universities.
What is the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship?
Administered by the Westpac Scholars Trust, the Future Leaders Scholarship is a prestigious program supporting those with the passion and potential to shape Australia’s future. Whether you’re dedicated to solving sustainability challenges, strengthening Australia-Asia relations, building a more inclusive society, or innovating in the tech space, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.
What Does It Offer?
- Scholarship Value: Up to $120,000 AUD per scholar
- Duration: Supports 2–3 years of postgraduate study
- Eligible Programs: PhD, Masters by Research, or Masters by Coursework
- Universities: Leading Australian institutions (such as ANU, University of Melbourne, UNSW, etc.)
- Leadership Development: Scholars will engage in a 9-month bespoke Leadership Development Program, expanding their capacity to lead, collaborate, and create impact.
Focus Areas
Applicants must align their study and goals with at least one of the program’s four key focus areas:
- Sustainable Futures
- Australia in Asia
- An Inclusive Country
- Thriving Tech Sector
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for future-focused postgraduate students (domestic or international) who:
- Are planning to begin an eligible postgraduate program in 2025
- Are driven by a desire to create meaningful change in Australia
- Exhibit strong academic merit, leadership potential, and a commitment to one of the four focus areas
Upcoming Info Session
Don’t miss the online information session on:
Wednesday, 6 August 2025
1:00pm AEST
Registrations are now open here https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/notices/06/2025-westpac-future-leaders-scholarship.
The last date to apply for the 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is Wednesday, 27 August 2025 at 5:00pm (AEST).