Scholarship

The purpose of the Scholarship is to assist female staffers to extend and develop their skills and capacity and contribute further to the party in policy, communications and leadership roles.

The scholarship enables passionate and committed women who see a future for themselves as political advisers to broaden their knowledge and horizons at either a local, state or national level. Past recipients have also been supported to pursue opportunities internationally.

To be eligible for the Scholarship, female applicants must meet the minimum selection criteria of:

• 3 or more years experience as a political adviser (at Federal or State level)
• 2 or more years of work experience in another workplace
• Australian citizen or resident

The successful applicant will also demonstrate the potential to contribute to the Labor Party as a mentor for younger female staffers at the completion of their Scholarship activities.

Up to $10,000 is awarded each year to an outstanding candidate who can use the funds to undertake travel, further education and training, or other activities that will prepare them to fill senior positions supporting Labor governments.
It is expected that scholarship funds are spent within 12 months of being awarded, and recipients submit a written report to the Elizabeth Reid Network for distribution to female staffers and others within the party to inform and inspire.

While you don’t need official approval, we would suggest you check in with both your Chief of Staff and/or MP to let them know you are applying. Their support for your application would be a great help if you are lucky enough to win and need the time off to undertake your studies or travel.

Applications open 25 March 2024
Applications close 9 June 2024
Recipient announced 26 June 2024
Recipient report 30 June 2025

Applications for the 2024 Scholarship are now closed. Please join the ERN Facebook group to stay updated with upcoming events, news and details of the next Scholarship round.”