If you’re ready to take your academic journey to the next level and drive meaningful change in the areas of sustainability, technology, social impact, or Australia’s engagement with Asia, this scholarship is for you.
What is the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship?
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is an initiative of the Westpac Scholars Trust, created to support outstanding individuals pursuing a Master by Coursework, Master by Research, or PhD at one of nine prestigious partner universities across Australia.
Each year, up to 17 scholarships are awarded to high-potential scholars with the vision to help shape a better and more inclusive Australia. The program is open to both research and coursework students and offers a holistic experience that includes:
● Generous financial support.
● Global exposure and overseas study opportunities.
● Tailored leadership development programs.
● Lifelong access to a powerful scholar network.
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Scholarship Benefits:
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is valued at up to AUD $120,000 per scholar, to be used over a two to three-year period. This comprehensive funding package includes:
● Tuition and Living Expenses:
Receive fully flexible financial support for both tuition fees and living costs throughout your postgraduate studies.
● Leadership Development Program:
Participate in a bespoke nine-month Leadership Development Program designed to strengthen your personal leadership capabilities, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking. This program is delivered in partnership with experienced mentors, industry leaders, and leadership experts.
● Overseas Study and Networking:
Spend up to six months abroad as part of your study plan to broaden your global perspective. Whether through study tours, conferences, research projects, volunteering, or internships — this international component is designed to expand your global network and enhance your leadership potential.
● Exclusive Scholar Community:
Join the Westpac 100 Scholars Network, a diverse and passionate community of future change makers from across Australia. Gain access to professional networking, mentoring, exclusive events, and collaborative opportunities that extend far beyond your university years.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Citizenship:
Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Academic Qualifications:
● Have completed your first undergraduate degree in 2020 or later, or be on track to complete it by 31 December 2025.
● Achieve an academic result equivalent to H1 or H2A, or a minimum weighted average mark (WAM) of 75%. Applicants may provide further context regarding academic performance in the application form.
3. Study Intentions:
● Intend to commence a full-time postgraduate degree (Masters by Coursework, Masters by Research, or PhD) at one of Westpac’s nine partner universities in 2026.
● Your course must begin no later than July 2026.
● MD and Juris Doctor Programs, or any Master’s program exceeding 2 years in length, are not eligible.
● Current postgraduate students are not eligible to apply.
4. Study Focus Areas:
Your area of study must align with at least one of the Westpac Scholars Trust’s four priority funding themes:
● Sustainable Futures.
● Thriving Tech Sector.
● An Inclusive Australia.
● Australia in Asia.
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Scholarship Partner Universities:
Applicants must undertake their postgraduate studies at one of the following nine leading Australian universities:
● Australian National University (ANU).
● Monash University.
● The University of Adelaide.
● The University of Melbourne.
● The University of Queensland.
● The University of Sydney.
● University of New South Wales (UNSW).
● The University of Western Australia (UWA).
● University of Tasmania.
These institutions are known for their research excellence and world-class academic environments, making them ideal places to grow as a leader and scholar.
Required Documents:
To complete your application, you’ll need to submit:
● A personal statement outlining your vision, leadership potential, and alignment with one or more of the scholarship’s four focus areas.
● A study plan that includes international opportunities such as conferences, short courses, or field research that will develop your global perspective and leadership skills.
● A post-study plan that demonstrates how you will use your education to contribute meaningfully to Australia’s future.
References:
● One academic reference.
● One personal reference.
Selection Process:
Your application will undergo a multi-stage selection process:
1. Initial Review:
The Westpac Scholars Trust team reviews your application for eligibility and overall merit.
2. Online Assessment:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to complete an online assessment.
3. University Endorsement:
Your application will be forwarded to your home university for further review and support.
4. Final Interview:
Selected finalists must attend an in-person interview with the National Selection Panel in Sydney on 3–4 December 2025. Travel expenses will be covered.
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What Makes a Successful Applicant?
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship seeks individuals who are not only academically outstanding but who also demonstrate:
● Visionary thinking.
● A strong commitment to creating change.
● Proven leadership potential.
● Community involvement or social impact initiatives.
● A clear understanding of how their study and career will benefit Australia’s future.
Whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, digital innovation, social equity, or international relations, your leadership journey begins here.
Why Apply for the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship?
This is not just another postgraduate scholarship it’s a transformational experience. From the generous funding and global travel opportunities to tailored leadership training and access to a lifelong professional network, the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship 2026 provides everything you need to become a leader of influence in your field. Key Benefits:
● Up to $120,000 in funding.
● World-class education at Australia’s top universities.
● Global leadership development and international exposure.
● Access to the Westpac Scholars Network and exclusive career opportunities.
● A pathway to influence Australia’s future across key sectors.
How to Apply and Applications Deadline?
You have to submit your complete application for this scholarship program by the given timeline:
● Application Deadline: 27 August 2025.
● National Finalist Interviews in Sydney: 3–4 December 2025.
● Leadership Development Program in Sydney: February & August/September 2026.
● Westpac Scholars Summit: March 2026.
Conclusion:
If you are ready to lead positive change, grow your academic career, and build global networks, apply now for the 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship. So to apply and know more visit the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship 2026 official link here.