THE Gallipoli Scholarship Fund invites applications for its 2026 Gallipoli Scholarships, offering $8000 to support first-year university and TAFE students who are direct descendants of Australian and New Zealand Veterans.

Applications open on January 1, 2026 and close on February 28, 2026 and can be lodged at Gallipoli Scholarships.

The scholarships honour the service and sacrifice of Veterans by supporting the education of their descendants, helping young Australians take their first step into tertiary study while carrying forward the enduring values of courage, perseverance, integrity, mateship and service.

Chair of the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund, Major General Mike Smith said the scholarships are not simply about financial assistance.

“They are about honouring the past by investing in the future, and recognising the contribution of all who have served, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans,” he said.

Established in 1996, the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund has supported students since 1998, assisting descendants of Veterans to overcome financial barriers to education.

Gallipoli Scholars have gone on to pursue careers across health, education, engineering, trades, defence, business, and the arts, contributing meaningfully to Australia’s future.

Each scholarship provides $8000, typically paid across the first year of study.

In addition to financial support, Scholars become part of the Gallipoli Scholar community, receiving recognition and maintaining a strong connection to Australia’s Veteran heritage.

Students are encouraged to apply if they will commence first year study at an Australian university or TAFE in 2026; are Australian citizens living in Australia; are direct descendants of an Australian or New Zealand Veteran who served in any conflict or peacekeeping operation from the First World War to the present day; and can demonstrate a combination of financial need and academic commitment.

Students from regional and rural communities, descendants of Indigenous Veterans, and students who may not usually apply for scholarships are encouraged to apply.

The Gallipoli Scholarship Fund calls on schools, careers advisers, universities, TAFEs, RSLs, ex-service organisations, and Veteran families to help share this opportunity and ensure eligible students are aware of the scholarships.

Applications open on January 1, 2026 and close on February 28, 2026 and can be lodged at Gallipoli Scholarships.