Tertiary Scholarships
Applications now closed.
To apply please send your application and supporting documents to scholarships@gardinerfoundation.com.au
Gardiner Foundation has expanded its Tertiary Scholarship Program for 2026. Students from Victorian dairy regions can apply for a scholarship to support study in any field. However, priority will be given to applicants enrolling in degrees that address key skills needed in dairy communities.
The program includes Tertiary Scholarships for students relocating to metropolitan areas and Regional Tertiary Scholarships for students studying at a regional university or college. We are also working with partners to strengthen pathways into TAFE and apprenticeship opportunities.
Research shows that students who study in regional areas are more likely to build their careers locally. These enhanced scholarships aim to support students and help retain skills and talent within Victoria’s dairy regions.
The scholarships are named in honour of dairy leaders Neil Black, Shirley Harlock, Jakob Malmo, Bill Pyle and Doug Weir, whose dedication and leadership helped shape the industry.
Since 2008, Gardiner has invested more than $1.9 million in 82 scholarships, with over 70 per cent of past scholars choosing to remain in, and contribute to, dairy communities.
Scholarship Streams
Priority Tertiary Scholarships
- Up to $80,000 over four years
- Plus an additional $10,000 after one year of post-graduate work in the dairy industry or dairying communities
- Open to students relocating from Victorian dairy regions for full-time study in any field of study
- Priority degrees: Agriculture, Agribusiness, Food Science & Nutrition, Engineering, Medicine, and Veterinary Science
- Up to five scholarships available
Regional Tertiary Scholarships
- Up to $30,000–$40,000 over three to four years
- Open to students commencing study at a regional university or regional college in any field of study
- Priority fields: Agriculture, Animal Science, Business, Engineering, Food Science & Nutrition, and Health
- Up to three scholarships available