Media releases
Westpac announces $2 million in postgraduate scholarships
9 September 2015
- Program to support 17 Australians every year, valued $120,000 each
- New research shows three-quarters of all recent university graduates believe postgraduate degrees are important to securing the ‘right’ job
The Westpac Bicentennial Foundation, the largest privately-funded education scholarship program in Australia’s history, has announced a new scholarship designed to empower our nation’s future leaders. The scholarship program is part of the broader Westpac Bicentennial Scholarship program, where 100 scholarships will be given a year to Australian scholars, forever.
Called the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, the unique postgraduate scholarship program will support 17 aspiring Australians who have a vision to help shape the future of Australia through their work and studies, with a focus on technology and innovation, driving social change or strengthening Australia-Asia ties.
The scholarship program is valued at $120,000 per student over two to three years.
“The Future Leaders Scholarship is a talent incubator for exceptional students with a mission to advance Australia and make a difference. It aims to empower the next generation of ambitious innovators, visionary leaders and drivers of real change,” said Susan Bannigan, Chief Executive Officer of the Westpac Bicentennial Foundation.
A recent Westpac study revealed three out of four recent university graduates see a postgraduate degree as important to securing the right job.
The Westpac Graduate Report also revealed that while graduates are interested in advancing their education, factors including the financial and time commitment are a major consideration. In addition, almost half of recent graduates said real-world experience was important for securing the right job.
“This scholarship goes beyond a financial investment and provides a unique opportunity for students to expand their knowledge through international experience and enhance their skills beyond the classroom. It includes a nine month leadership development program, networking opportunities to generate pathways to career prospects and the chance to gain global experience as part of their post-grad study,” added Ms Bannigan.
Scholarship applications are now open and close on Wednesday 30 September, 2015.
For information on the Westpac Bicentennial Foundation and Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship, visit www.westpac.com.au/200years