In 2026, the Westpac Future Leaders Program in Australia will offer graduate students a powerful launchpad into leadership and innovation. It provides recipients with up to AUD 120,000 in funding for postgraduate study, a nine-month leadership development journey, overseas experiences, and inclusion in an elite national network of future changemakers
What is the Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship?
A prestigious program that supports individuals with the potential and passion to influence Australia’s future, the Future Leaders Scholarship is administered by the Westpac Scholars Trust. This opportunity is specifically designed for individuals who are committed to addressing sustainability challenges, fostering relations between Australia and Asia, fostering a more inclusive society, or innovating in the technology sector.
What Does It Offer?
- Scholarship Value: Up to $120,000 AUD per scholar
- Duration: Facilitates two to three years of postgraduate study
- Eligible Programs: PhD, Masters by Research, or Masters by Coursework
- Universities: Prominent Australian institutions (e.g., ANU, University of Melbourne, UNSW, etc.)
- Leadership Development: Scholars will participate in a 9-month, customized Leadership Development Program that will enhance their ability to lead, collaborate, and generate influence.
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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 you preparing to enroll in a postgraduate program that is eligible in 2025?
- Are motivated by a resolve to effect significant change in Australia
- Demonstrate a dedication to one of the four focus areas, leadership potential, and exceptional academic performance.
Upcoming Info Session:
Don’t miss the online information session:
Registrations are now open here https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/notices/06/2025-westpac-future-leaders-scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Westpac Future Leaders Program?
The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship supports high-achieving graduates pursuing a postgraduate degree (Master’s or PhD) at a Westpac partner university, and includes a leadership development program.
Who is eligible?
You must:
Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident Complete your first undergrad degree between 2020–2025
Achieve a WAM of ~75 or above (H1 or H2A equivalent)
Enroll full-time in a Master’s by coursework/research or PhD, starting by mid‑2026; exclude extended master’s, MD, and JD programs
Study in one of the Trust’s priority areas: Australia in Asia, Thriving Tech, Inclusive Australia, or Sustainable Futures
Include an international component (study tour, internship, conference, etc.)
Present a viable post-study plan for benefiting Australia
Provide two references (one academic, one personal)
Be available for selection interviews and program events in Sydney (December 2025, Feb & Aug–Sep 2026, March 2026 Summit)What funding do I receive?
Up to AUD 120,000 over 2–3 years, covering tuition, living costs, leadership development, and travel, including international experience
Includes access to the W100 Scholars Network, leadership programs, and the annual Westpac Scholars Summit
