Fully Funded Australia Awards Scholarships 2026

The Australia Awards Fellowships, managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of Australia, offer exceptionally targeted short-term opportunities designed to build professional networks and strengthen organisational links between Australia and partner countries. (DFAT)

 Purpose & Scope

These fellowships are aimed at mid-career and senior professionals from developing countries who are positioned to influence development outcomes in their home nation. The program also encourages Australian organisations to host fellows and deepen international institutional partnerships. (DFAT)

Based in Australia, the fellowship activities may include short-term study, research, professional attachments, training, networking and in some cases follow-up in the fellow’s home country. The duration can range from 2 to 52 weeks, provided there is at least a short period in Australia. (DFAT)

Who Can Apply?

• Australian Host Organisations: Only organisations registered in Australia, with an Australian Business Number (ABN), can apply to host fellows in this program. Individuals cannot apply directly. (DFAT)
• Overseas Counterpart Organisations (OCOs): These are partner organisations in eligible developing countries with which the Australian host has a relationship. They do not apply directly—they work through the Australian host. (DFAT)
• Fellow Applicants: The actual fellows are nominated by the Australian host organisation in cooperation with the OCO. Fellows are typically senior or mid-career professionals from eligible countries. They must meet development impact criteria and be able to utilise their learnings on return home. (DFAT)

Duration & Funding

Fellowship activities typically include:

• A block of time (minimum two weeks) in Australia for study, training or professional attachment. (FundsforNGOs)
• Follow-on activities in the partner country (if included) that must not exceed the duration in Australia. (DFAT)

Funding may cover travel, living and training costs; for example, funding up to AUD $34,500 per fellow has been noted. (DFAT)

 How to Apply

1. An Australian organisation identifies a project aligned with development objectives and partners with an Overseas Counterpart Organisation. (DFAT)
2. The Australian organisation submits an application (through DFAT’s portal) that includes the project plan, co-contributions, and plans to host the fellow. (DFAT)
3. Selection is competitive. Applicants must meet compliance criteria and demonstrate value for the fellow’s home country. (DFAT)

 Why It Matters

For mid-career professionals in developing countries, participation in this fellowship offers:

• Access to high-quality training, networks and organisational partnerships in Australia.
• Opportunities to implement enhanced skills or knowledge in their home institution or sector.
• Strengthening links between Australian institutions and counterparts in partner countries.

For Australian organisations, it connects them with international counterparts, builds capacity across countries, and helps deliver mutual development goals.