Investing in people with bold ambitions for the future of Australia

Our vision is to empower a new generation of leaders to transform the future of Australia. We believe providing access to education and leadership develop opportunities to people from all walks of life is the path to achieving this.

Embedded within our vision are several critical strategic priorities, including:

 

  • Backing Australians who can make a difference, awarding 100 scholarships a year, forever.
  • Developing world-class leaders through our transformative leadership programs.
  • Empowering the W100 Network by providing lifelong access to an inspiring community.
  • Fostering long-term mutually beneficial partnerships with Australian universities.
  • Delivering measurable impact that is long-term and sustainable.

Our scholarship focus areas

Our scholarship programs focus around four key areas we believe are at the heart of Australia's future growth and prosperity.

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Sustainable Futures

Advancing individuals who are creating solutions to restore ecosystems, reduce environmental impact and build long-term climate resilience where people and planet thrive.

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Asia-Pacific Leadership

Equipping leaders with the networks, insights and cultural agility to build Australia’s international partnerships.

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Connected and Stronger Society

Investing in leaders creating a more inclusive and connected Australia - from strengthening democracy to transforming education and tackling inequality.

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Innovation for Impact

Backing leaders advancing science, new technologies and entrepreneurship to solve complex challenges and create lasting benefit. Positioning Australia as a global leader in innovation for good.

Westpac Asian Exchange Scholars in Singapore

The journey so far

In 2022 we conducted an inaugural long-term impact evaluation through independent market research agency Pollinate Australia. The purpose of this research was to assess Westpac Scholars Trust’s overall value to society and determine whether we've ultimately been successful in our mission of creating a stronger Australia. 

 

The results of this research were overwhelmingly positive and indicate that we are delivering on our vision to build future leaders that contribute significantly to the economic and social success of our country across our four key focus areas of sustainability, inclusion, innovation and ties with Asia. 

 

The evaluation revealed the following long-term insights about our scholars:  

 

  • At least 1 in 3 scholars hold a position of leadership in business or community organisations.  
  • 1 in 5 scholars have launched one or more organisations. 
  • 72% of these organisations have generated new jobs in Australia.  
  • 1 in 4 scholars are receiving financial investment to support their work. 
  • At least half of these scholars are receiving $500,000 or more and 10% are receiving over $5 million.
  • 7% of scholars have had their research commercialised. 

Review the full results of this impact evaluation and learn more about other incredible scholars that embody these findings.  (PDF 1MB)