To be considered for a 2027 scholarship, you apply in 2026. Research and travel start in 2027.

Applications for 2027 opened on Monday 16 February 2026.

All scholarships are available to Australian citizens or permanent residents only.

Drought Resilience Scholarships

In addition to our longstanding scholarship investors, the Future Drought Fund (FDF) are investing in at least five scholarships that are specifically available to study drought resilience and support innovation. These scholarships will support applicants to build drought resilience expertise, adapt innovative technology and practices from overseas and share these learnings to advance Australian agriculture.

Other study topic ideas relating to specific industry sectors are listed under the “Available Scholarships” page.

Please review these pages on this website prior to applying:

Eligibility

• Typically between 28-45 years of age. Please note that exceptional candidates outside this age range will be considered
• A citizen or permanent resident of Australia
• Engaged in farming, horticulture, fishing or associated industries
• Intending to remain involved in food and fibre industries in Australia

Value

• $40,000 bursary, subject to guidelines set out on this website to cover costs associated with the study and reporting
• $3,000 of the bursary will be withheld as an assurance on the submission of an approved report
• Likely costs exceeding the bursary value must be met by the scholar

Program Components

• Nuffield Australia National Conference is a chance to engage with the Nuffield network and agribusiness leaders, receive a program briefing and be announced as part of the latest intake. Held in September annually, successful applicants will attend the two-day conference and 1.5 day regional tour.
• Contemporary Scholars Conference (CSC). Held in March annually, the CSC is a one-week program for all newly-selected scholars from around the world. Scholars build networks, and consider international trade and policy issues. Scholars share and learn about different cultures, represent their country and industry, and enhance leadership skills.
• Australian Focus Program (AFP) is a 1-2 week program which commences in Canberra with workshops and seminars to understand parliament, advocacy, policy, megatrends and key Australian agriculture issues. Scholars enhance their industry knowledge and visit a number of farms, agribusinesses and research facilities. There is also be a strong focus on drought resilience and sustainability in this part of the component.
• Global Focus Program (GFP) offers a five-week, group travel experience spent in various countries across the world. Scholars select one GFP and investigate agricultural marketing, trade, environmental issues and experience social and cultural aspects of each region. Drought resilience research also forms part of the GFP programs.
• Individual Study enables scholars to travel to countries of choice to study their chosen topic. This component is four/five weeks which doesn’t have to be concurrent travel.
• Written and Verbal Reporting is a requirement of the scholarship and these are completed following the research. Reports are due in writing as well as online at virtual events and in person at the National Conference.

LEARN MORE HERE

Scholarship Benefits

• 15-weeks of purposeful learning and unique access to our approachable, global agricultural network
• Connections with the global alumni – over 500 scholars in Australia and 2,000 worldwide
• See leading and innovative businesses and identify new best practices
• Select a research topic that will be of use to you, your business, community and industry

The Nuffield program opens doors to exciting and rewarding experiences. Whether it’s walking the halls of Westminster or Washington DC, or touring a leading wheat and maize research facility in Mexico, a scholarship presents a career defining opportunity.

As a Scholar you will:

• Research a topic to add value to the Australian primary industry sector
• Join a global network of 2,000 scholars, who have enjoyed this unique experience
• Become a lifelong member of Nuffield to promote primary industries
• Travel overseas and have access to international businesses and individuals not otherwise reachable

Nuffield Scholars have achieved distinction in many fields. Proof of both the calibre of those selected and the effect and value of the scholarships are such that many have gone on to an extraordinary range of positions. Scholars have become Federal and State politicians, chairs and members of national and regional commodity boards. Many have made a significant impact at a regional and local level, both in community affairs and in farm management. Others have developed careers as advisers and managers both in Australia and overseas.

In every case scholars attribute a proportion of the responsibility for their later career success to the scholarship and continuing friendships and associations that follow. The learning process continues for life.