The Australia Awards Fellowships program offers short-term opportunities for senior and mid-career professionals from eligible developing countries to undertake study, research, and professional development in Australia. This program is unique as it is based on institutional partnerships. Australian organizations apply for funding to host a group of “Fellows” from partner organizations overseas, delivering a targeted program designed to address specific development priorities.
Program Benefits (For Fellows)
- Professional Development: Fellows engage in highly-customized training, research, and professional development activities delivered by an Australian host organization.
- Fully Funded Experience: While individuals cannot apply directly, those selected by a host organization receive comprehensive support, including return airfare, a living allowance, full coverage of program fees, and medical insurance.
- Networking and Leadership: The program is designed to build strong institutional links and enhance the leadership skills of Fellows, empowering them to advance priority issues upon their return home.
Eligibility Criteria
The program has a distinct two-part eligibility structure:
- For Australian Organizations (The Applicants):
- Must be a legal Australian entity with a current ABN (e.g., universities, businesses, government departments, NGOs).
- Must apply in partnership with an Overseas Counterpart Organisation (OCO) from an eligible country.
- Must demonstrate a commitment to the partnership through a financial or in-kind co-contribution.
- For Fellows (The Nominees):
- Individuals cannot apply directly. They must be nominated by their home organization as part of a proposal submitted by an Australian organization.
- Must be a citizen of and residing in an eligible partner country.
- Must be a senior or mid-career professional working in a relevant field.
- Must not be current serving military personnel.
Application Process (For Australian Organizations)
- Application Deadline: Applications for Round 21 close at 11:59 PM AEDT on January 16, 2026.
- How to Apply: Australian organizations must submit their fellowship proposals through the SmartyGrants online portal.
- Program Focus: Proposals must align with one of Australia’s development priority areas, such as climate change, health, gender equality, or the digital economy.
- Timeline: Fellowship activities for Round 21 are scheduled to take place between September 2026 and March 2028.
Application Link:
For complete details on eligible countries, program guidelines, and for Australian organizations to access the application portal, please visit the official Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website.
