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Backing Australia’s brightest minds: $3.44m in scholarships awarded
10 February 2025
Nineteen scholars will share $3.44 million in awarded funding from Westpac Scholars Trust to advance research in sustainability, technology, and social change. From AI-driven healthcare to safeguarding Australia’s digital future, 2025 Westpac Scholars are tackling the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Investing in Research
Two early-career researchers from The University of Sydney and The Australian National University (ANU) have been awarded Westpac Research Fellowships, receiving over $1.4 million in combined funding. The five-year program provides flexible funding, leadership development, and access to the W100 Scholars Network.
Dr. Eve Warburton (ANU), is exploring the evolving role of critical minerals like nickel and lithium in the global economy. Her research examines the impact of mineral-led development and trade in our region. Dr. Olga Boichak (University of Sydney) is researching how Australia's internet communication networks impact its national security.
“The work these researchers are undertaking is vital to our nation’s progress,” said Amy Lyden, CEO of Westpac Scholars Trust. “By investing in them, we’re investing in Australia’s future,” Lyden adds.
Supporting Future Leaders
Seventeen postgraduate students have been awarded Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships, valued at over $2 million to pursue studies in areas like renewable materials, climate-resilient kelp forests, and governance models for Australia-Asia partnerships.
Kayvan Gharbi, who studies a Master’s of Research at the University of Melbourne, plans to transform retinal disease detection by applying hyperspectral imaging - a technology that captures light across many wavelengths to reveal information beyond human perception - with deep learning - a form of artificial intelligence that identifies hidden patterns in data.
His approach is set to improve diagnostic accuracy, make early detection more accessible, and potentially leverage information within the eye to infer disease beyond it.
"If we can detect, treat and even prevent diseases earlier, we can transform lives," said Gharbi. "I’m particularly excited about how hyperspectral imaging and deep learning can be adapted to address other critical health challenges."
Building Australia’s future
Westpac Scholars Trust’s is committed to awarding 100 scholarships a year, forever. Since 2015, the Trust and its university partners have awarded $47.6 million to 989 scholars. Each scholarship combines funding with leadership development and membership in a thriving community of changemakers dedicated to building a better future for Australia.
“These scholarships go beyond financial support; access to leadership development and networks will amplify our scholars’ impact,” adds Lyden.
For more information on the Westpac Scholars Trust and its initiatives, visit Westpac Scholars.
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