Two funds. One purpose.
- Scholarships
Education for Leadership Fund
Scholarships, bursaries and prizes for young Australians undertaking formal courses of study at secondary schools and tertiary institutions in Australia. The Foundation is applying to the Australian Taxation Office for endorsement of the Education for Leadership Fund as a deductible gift recipient (DGR). Until this endorsement is received, gifts to the Education for Leadership fund are not tax-deductible. - Formation
Formation for Leadership Fund
Scholarships and other funding for young Australians undertaking formation and leadership development in short-course and informal formats, in Australia and overseas, and for university study overseas. The Formation for Leadership Fund is not eligible for DGR endorsement and gifts to this fund are not tax-deductible. - Public discussion
The Foundation also hosts occasional events
- To promote these funds and its work, and
- To contribute to public discussion, about both the part that religion and education can play in improving the lives of individuals and communities, and the life and legacy of Cardinal Pell.
Careful selection for impact
Apply
Young people can apply directly for support when calls for applications are made. Schools, parishes and institutions can also encourage young people to apply
Assess
The board convenes an expert selection committee to review applications against each of the Foundation’s criteria for support.
Award
All award recommendations are submitted to the board for final review and approval. Support is awarded with clear terms and a named contact at the Foundation.
Report
Recipients provide periodic reports on their progress and at the conclusion of their studies, so that the Foundation can report back to supporters on the impact their funding has made.
How to apply for support
Academic merit and leadership potential are two key criteria for awarding support. Who can apply, what they can apply for, and what the Foundation looks for are explained here.
Applications are not yet open. The Foundation is not currently receiving applications for scholarships or other funding. We hope to make our first call for applications in the second half of 2027.
Contact Us
Who can apply
Australian citizens and permanent residents, in all Australian states and territories.
What we look for
Academic merit, leadership potential, strength of character, appreciation of Cardinal Pell's legacy, and the potential to contribute significantly to the social, political, religious and cultural life of Australia.
Education for Leadership
Apply to the Education for Leadership fund for scholarships and bursaries to undertake formal courses of secondary or tertiary education in Australia, including an overseas study component of an Australian secondary or tertiary course.
Formation for Leadership
Apply to the Formation for Leadership Fund for scholarships and other funding to undertake informal and short-course formation and leadership programs in Australia and overseas, and university studies overseas.