2027 Westpac Future Leaders Postgraduate Scholarship in Sydney – Australia

Location: Australia

Program: Postgraduate – Master’s & PhD Degrees

Eligibility: Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents

Duration: 2-3 years

Deadline: August 20, 2026

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The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is a prestigious, fully funded postgraduate program that supports exceptional Australians pursuing master’s or PhD studies at nine leading universities. Established in 2016 by the Westpac Scholars Trust to mark Westpac’s 200th anniversary, the scholarship aims to develop emerging leaders who will drive positive social, technological, and environmental change in Australia.

Each year, up to 17 scholars receive comprehensive funding, a nine-month Leadership Development Program, international study opportunities, and lifelong membership in the W100 Scholars Network. The program supports research and initiatives in four key areas vital to Australia’s future: Sustainable Futures, Australia in Asia, An Inclusive Country, and Thriving Tech Sector, empowering scholars to create lasting national and global impact.

Benefits of the Scholarship

This scholarship provides comprehensive support including:

Financial support of up to $120,000
Lifetime membership in the W100 Scholars Network
Leadership Development Program (a bespoke 9-month leadership and personal development program)
Overseas experience of up to six months as part of your studies
Networking opportunities with scholars, senior business leaders, mentors, and industry experts.
Attendance at the Westpac Scholars Summit in Sydney

The financial package to assist with:

Tuition fees
Living expenses
Accommodation
Food and daily necessities
Travelling expenses
Books, supplies, and research materials

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a 2027 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship you must:

Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Have completed your first undergraduate degree from 1 January 2021, or will complete your degree by 31 December 2026.
Have achieved, or are on track to achieve, an average result of H1 or H2A equivalent or approx 75 WAM (the application form includes questions to provide further context to grades if required).
Have chosen to undertake a full-time Masters by Coursework or Research or a PhD at one of our nine participating university partners.
Must be commencing study by 31 July 2027. You must not have commenced your postgraduate degree.  
Doctor of Medicine (MD) and Juris Doctor programs or a Masters by Coursework program longer than 2 years are also excluded.
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.
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.
Supply two letters of reference, one academic and one personal. For PhD and Masters by Research applicants, you must also supply one letter of support from either your supervisor, Dean of the Faculty or Head of School or equivalent.
If a finalist, 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.
Be able to attend the Future Leaders Scholars Leadership Development Program in Sydney in mid-February 2027.
Be able to attend the Westpac Scholars Summit in March/April 2027.

Note: Kindly check the official webpage for full and detailed requirements.

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Selection Criteria

The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship selection process identifies exceptional emerging leaders with the vision and capability to create lasting positive impact in Australia. Applicants are assessed on leadership and vision (ability to inspire change, think strategically, and drive innovation), academic excellence (strong academic record, intellectual curiosity, and research potential), communication and collaboration (clarity, teamwork, inclusivity, and diverse thinking), character and values (integrity, resilience, generosity, and commitment to Australia’s future), and impact and alignment (clear post-study goals, alignment with Westpac’s focus areas, community involvement, and innovative thinking).