AWM Grants & Scholarships

AWM 017548 The Australian War Memorial Act 1980 requires the Memorial to "conduct, arrange and assist in research into matters pertaining to Australian military history". The Memorial has fulfilled this function, in part, through the Research Grants Scheme, Research Fellowships, and Summer Vacation Scholarships.

Research Grants Scheme and Research Fellowships

The Research Grants Scheme, which has been operating since 1976, is currently in abeyance.

Summer Vacation Scholarship Scheme

The Australian War Memorial provides one or more Summer Vacation Scholarships for history students in the third or fourth year of an undergraduate course, or who are undertaking early-stage postgraduate studies. The scholarships are also open to students enrolled in museum or public history courses.

This is an important opportunity for students hoping to make history their career. If successful you will acquire skills in public history by working with staff in the Memorial’s Military History Section. You will gain an understanding of the range and significance of the Memorial’s collections and of the work of historians within a major cultural institution.

You will need an excellent academic record, as well as an ability to think imaginatively and work collaboratively. While you do not need a background in military history, you will need a willingness to engage with the subject. If military history is your particular interest, you will gain valuable experience by working intensively with some of Australia’s leading experts in the field.

Each scholar is allocated a project relevant to the Memorial’s research interests. At the end of their time, scholars are normally expected to submit a report on their project and to give a short presentation to staff and interested others.

An honorarium of $300 per week is payable for the duration of the scholarship (provided the holders are not in receipt of a regular, full-time income) and free accommodation is provided. A return fare between a scholarship holder’s home and Canberra will also be provided.

The application form will be made available in mid-August. Applications close on 3 October 2008.

Frequently asked questions about the Summer Vacation Scholarship Scheme.

For further information please contact,

Libby Stewart
Military History Section
Australian War Memorial
GPO Box 345
Canberra ACT 2601

Phone: (02) 6243 4362
Email: libby.stewart@awm.gov.au