ACN Foundation Scholarships, Grants and Awards

The Eric Murray Quiet Achiever Award is funded by the Murray Family in memory of Eric Murray FACN, a Fellow of ACN. The Eric Murray Achiever Award is to assist with continuing professional development or community work that is judged beneficial to the nursing profession and public. 

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships: 1
Value of scholarship: $1,500

Eligibility criteria checklist

• must be a current ACN Student
• studying one of the following:
  - ACN Graduate Certificate Course
  - National Immunisation Program for Healthcare Practitioners
  - Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Re-entry)
• CPD short course or webinar participants, and single subject students are not eligible.

Document checklist

• Completed application
• Evidence of enrolment in a current ACN course. This can be a screen shot from your student portal or confirmation letter from ACN confirming you are enrolled. Please note, the scholarship team does not have access to student information.

Selection Criteria

• Scholarship will be awarded to the student who can best demonstrate in their response to the selection questions, the benefit they would gain from their intended CPD or community activity.

The ‘Sul’ Stuart Fraser Memorial Scholarship was established to honour the person and nursing accomplishments of the late Matron Harriet ‘Sul’ Stuart Fraser who had a long and distinguished nursing career in New South Wales. Four scholarships available to registered nurses wishing to undertake ACN's Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing. The scholarship covers the cost of the course fees, valued $8,000. Applicants must have been an ACN member for at least the past three years or more.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Eligibility criteria

• Years of Nursing experience (postgraduate) - must have a minimum of one year postgraduate experience to be eligible
• Must be an ACN member for at least the past three years or more.
• Must provide ACN Membership number
• Currently work in a perioperative environment

Document checklist

• AHPRA registration certificate
• Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent residency
• CV
• Employer details and Proof of employment
• Two nursing referees’ details (one should be current manager)

Referees

• Two nursing references are required. One referee should be your current manager. The ACN review committee may contact these referees as part of the assessment process for the scholarships.

Selection criteria

• Discuss why undertaking the Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing will be of benefit to the perioperative/surgical patients in your workplace.
• Discuss how undertaking the course will be of benefit to your own professional development in perioperative /surgical nursing.
  

Applicants must complete the selection questions and the declaration included in this application.

Applicants will be notified by email of the outcome of their application.

The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) in collaboration with ConvaTec ANZ is delighted to offer three scholarships for nurses to complete the ACN Graduate Certificate in Stomal Therapy Nursing, commencing July 2026.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships: 3
Value of scholarship: $5,000

Who can apply?

Applicants for the ConvaTec scholarship for the Graduate Certificate in Stomal Therapy Nursing are open to all interested nurses who meet the specific criteria.

Eligibility criteria

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Current registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia.
• Hold a Bachelor of Nursing or Registered nurse equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of one year postgraduate experience.
• Currently employed in an appropriate clinical setting.

How can I apply?

To apply you will need:

• Current resume (detailing experience); 
• Covering letter (detailing the specific selection criteria above, include your rationale for why you should be the scholarship recipient and how will this scholarship improve your practice); 
• Letter of support from your current employer. 

Selection criteria

• Demonstrated capacity to provide and enhance evidence-based, person -centric care specifically in stomal therapy, wound care, and continence management.
• Proven track record of proactive, self-directed professional development and engagement within these specific clinical specialties.
• Strong aptitude for clinical leadership and a clear commitment to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and best practice among nursing peers.
• Clear ability to design, organise, and deliver structured, effective in-service training to facilitate ongoing staff learning.
• Capacity to effectively translate advanced academic knowledge into practical, everyday nursing practice to improve patient outcomes.
  
  
  

Applications will be assessed based on the response to the selection criteria and rationale. Applicants are asked to complete and submit a form along with the above required documents.

The Australian College of Nursing Foundation (ACNF) in partnership with Endometriosis Australia is delighted to offer a scholarship for the Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain unit.

The Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain unit is a specialised course designed to equip students with the comprehensive knowledge and essential skills needed to become effective advocates for individuals experiencing chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. Through this unit, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the pathophysiology of endometriosis and pain physiology, as well as contemporary, evidence-based treatment and management strategies. The course emphasises a holistic, person-centred approach, preparing students to address the complex needs of those suffering from these conditions in various clinical settings. This unit aims to enhance students' ability to assess and manage endometriosis and pelvic pain with confidence and competence. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, students will learn to approach patient care with empathy and advocacy, ensuring that each individual's unique experiences and needs are recognized and addressed. Whether students are healthcare professionals or aspiring clinicians, this course will empower them to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships: 20
Value of scholarship: $2,580 (Note: does not include travel and/or accommodation)

Eligibility criteria

Applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Hold a current registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia
• Possess the capacity to complete online modules/workshops
• Preference will be given to the following demographics of applicants:
  - First Nations or Torres Strait Islander applicants
  - LGBTQIA+ applicants
  - Rural or remote applicants
  - Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) applicants
  - Government funded pelvic pain clinic nursing staff applicants

How can I apply?

To apply you will need:

• Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent resident of Australia (birth certificate, passport or visa papers)
• Current resume (detailing professional achievements in a clinical, education, leadership, or academic setting within the past two years)
• Current AHPRA nurse registration.
• Letter from your employer confirming your employment, position and your ability to complete the program

Selection criteria

• Demonstrate the direct relevance of this unit to their nursing practice, emphasising how it will enhance their ability to provide specialised care for patients with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain.
• Outline a clear plan for disseminating the knowledge gained from this study to their colleagues, including methods such as presentations, workshops, and the development of educational materials.
• Provide evidence of their ongoing commitment to professional development in nursing, highlighting previous training, certifications, and active participation in initiatives related to gynaecological health and chronic pain management.
  

Sponsored by Perpetual Private – $10,000 available to an ACN member or fellow currently enrolled or intending to enroll in a postgraduate nursing education program at Queensland University of Technology. Must have been an ACN member for at least the past three years or more.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships: 1
Value of Scholarship: $10,000

Eligibility criteria checklist

• Reside in Australia as a registered or enrolled nurse as a citizen or permanent resident.
• Hold registration as a nurse with a current practicing certificate (or its equivalent).
• Possess current membership or fellowship with ACN.
• Avoid having received a scholarship or grant from the National Research and Scholarships Fund in the previous 2 years.
• Pursue postgraduate community nursing studies at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 2026.

Document checklist

• CV - includes your qualifications, recent professional development activities and relevant work experience.
• If you are undertaking a research program the CV should also include refereed publications and scholarly activities (including conference presentations, indicating if refereed) for the past 3 years in reverse chronological order.
• Please attach a short and concise CV (maximum of three pages) which includes your qualifications, recent professional development activities and relevant work experience.

Referees

• Two nursing referees are required (one should preferably be your current employer). The ACN review committee may contact these referees as part of the assessment process for the scholarships.

Selection Criteria

• The scholarship will be awarded to the applicant who can best demonstrate that the proposed study will both add to the body of knowledge on nursing roles and has the potential to improve patient care/outcomes.

Applicants must complete the selection questions included in the application form.

A research grant is available for up to $30,000 to registered nurses and/or midwives to conduct a research project that undertakes to address one or more of the following aims:

1. Improve access and equity in health care
2. Positively impact upon the quality of care
3. Improve the outcomes of health care

Applications from research collectives and multidisciplinary groups are encouraged.

The principal Investigator and at least one co-investigator must each be a Fellow or Member of ACN and have been one for at least the past three years.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Value of scholarship: $30,000

Eligibility criteria checklist

• The Principal Investigator must be a nurse and/or midwife residing in Australia who is a current Fellow or Member of ACN and has been one for at least the past three years. 
• A majority of the research team must be nurses. 
• The project must be consistent with the aims of the award and be able to produce new knowledge for nursing and/or midwifery practice. 
  - Aim 1: improve access and equity in health care  
  - Aim 2: positively impact upon the quality of care 
  - Aim 3: improve the outcomes of health care 
• The grant must not be used to provide personal salary or support for study for any of the named team investigators, their salary replacement, conference attendance, or for the purchase of equipment. 

Document checklist

• Completed application
• Curriculum vitae of Principal Investigator
• Institutional approval in the form of a letter from the relevant Head of Department / Manager indicating approval for the project to be undertaken at their facility. (refer to Section 2) 
• Evidence of application to, or approval from, the relevant human research ethics committee(s) if applicable. (see Section 2 for details)

Selection Criteria

• The grant will be awarded to the application with the research project that best addresses one or more of the aims of the award.

Applicants must complete the selection questions and the declaration included in this application.

Funded by Richard Harrison and Family - This scholarship will fund attendance to the National Nursing Forum and the Nurse Director Leadership Program including – Travel, accommodation, course and registration.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships available: 1
Value of scholarship: up to $15,000

About Nurse Director Leadership Program

The Nurse Director Leadership Program is a dynamic 6-month course that empowers nurses to lead change in a rapidly changing environment. Available to registered nurses with more than six years of professional experience and who have worked in or are new to management and leadership roles. 

About ACN National Nursing Forum

ACN's National Nursing Forum (NNF) is the ACN's signature annual leadership and educational event bringing together nurses, students and other health professionals from around the country and the globe. Attendees will enjoy a full and rich forum experience with face-to-face presentations and interactions with the nursing network, the opportunity to connect with valuable sponsors and exhibitors to learn about the latest products and more.

Who can apply?

Applications are open to members and non-members who meet the following criteria:

• Possess Australian citizenship or permanent residency in Australia.
• Practice as a registered nurse in an Australian rural area classified within the Modified Monash Model’s MM3 to MM7 categories. See Health Workforce locator to determine eligibility. 
• Hold current registration as a Registered Nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• Demonstrate a minimum of six years’ postgraduate experience or the ability to influence organisations, team practices, and/or cultures (e.g., nurse leaders seeking promotion into management positions).
• Exhibit leadership qualities in nursing and/or within the health or aged care systems (e.g., recently appointed managers aiming to fast-track their development into confident, self-directed leaders).
• Complete the program work within the six-month timeframe.
• Identify a workplace mentor who will support you during the program by acting as a sounding board for ideas and ensuring you feel supported and energised.

How can I apply?

To apply you will need:

• Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent resident of Australia (birth certificate, passport or visa papers)
• Current resume (detailing professional achievements in a clinical, education, leadership, or academic setting within the past two years)
• Current AHPRA nurse registration.
• Letter from your employer confirming your employment and position as a community nurse and your ability to complete the program within the six months time frame.
• Identify a workplace mentor who will support you during the program. The primary role of the sponsor will be to act as a sounding board for thoughts and ideas and to help ensure the participant feels supported and energised during the program.

Applicants are asked to complete and submit the application form along with the above required documents. 

Selection criteria

Applicants are required to respond to the following selection criteria within this application:

• Articulate goals for attending the National Nursing Forum and desired achievements.
• Illustrate how participation in the National Nursing Forum will enhance professional growth and nursing practice.
• Demonstrate plans for sharing and applying information gained from the National Nursing Forum.
• Showcase individual initiatives contributing to the advancement of the nursing profession within the workplace.

Scholarships will be awarded on the recommendation of the selection committee and will be based on the above selection criteria.

Preference will be given to applicants in rural and remote areas of Australia, and First Nation Nurses.

Sponsored by David and Jennie Sutherland Foundation - This scholarship will fund the Nurse Director Leadership Program

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships available: 1

Value of scholarship: $5,000 (Note: Scholarship will not cover travel or accommodation)

Eligibility criteria

• Possess Australian citizenship or permanent residency in Australia.
• Practice as a registered nurse in an Australian rural area classified within the Modified Monash Model’s MM3 to MM7 categories. See Health Workforce locator to determine eligibility. 
• Hold current registration as a Registered Nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
• Demonstrate a minimum of six years’ postgraduate experience
• Exhibit leadership qualities in nursing and/or within the health or aged care systems.
• Complete program work within the six-month timeframe.
• Identify a workplace mentor who supports you during the program.
• Ensure your workplace mentors your ideas and provides ongoing support throughout the program.

How can I apply?

To apply you will need:

• Proof of Australian citizenship or permanent resident of Australia (birth certificate, passport or visa papers)
• Proof of rural or remote address (electricity/gas bill or rates notice)
• Current resume (detailing professional achievements in a clinical, education, leadership, or academic setting within the past two years)
• Current AHPRA nurse registration.
• Letter from your employer confirming your employment, position and your ability to complete the program within the six months time frame.
• Letter from work place sponsor confirming their support.
• Applicants are asked to complete and submit the application form along with the above required documents.

Applicants are asked to complete and submit the application form along with the above required documents.

Selection criteria:

• Demonstrate commitment to advancing nurse leadership with a patient/consumer focus.
• Exhibit commitment to change management or quality improvement in the workplace while displaying rural nursing leadership.
• Articulate the anticipated impact of the Nurse Director Leadership Program on your career, particularly in advancing community nursing leadership.
• Develop a comprehensive plan for change management or quality improvement.
• Showcase professional achievements in clinical, educational, leadership, or academic settings.

Launch Your Board Career with the Nurse to Board Leadership Program. The Nurse to Board Leadership Program is designed for nurses aspiring to step into board positions. The program acknowledges the vital perspective nurses offer and equips them with the skills required to drive positive change in healthcare.

This program combines the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Foundations of Directorship Health Variant course with bespoke ACN-led mentorship and masterclasses. This program aims to create a meaningful pathway for nurses to transition into board roles, empowering them to influence healthcare policy, governance, and strategic decision-making at the highest levels.

This 4-month program (June-Sept 2026) has an integrated approach to ensure participants gain both formal governance education and practical, health-specific insights.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships available: 6

Value of scholarship: $2,500

About Foundations of Directorship Online

The Foundations of Directorship Online – Health Variant course is delivered across 3 x virtually facilitated sessions by AICD:- Governance for Directors, Risk and Strategy for Directors, and Finance for Directors. Participants will benefit from a dedicated AICD Learning Support Executive (LSE) who will guide participants through the course, assisting with understanding expectations, monitoring their progress, and highlighting key deadlines and support services.

Participants who successfully complete and pass all three Foundation of Directorship multiple choice quizzes will attain the Foundations of Directorship™ certificate, which includes AICD digital badge.

About ACN Nuse Led Peer Connection Sessions

ACN facilitated sessions designed to deepen participants’ understanding of key concepts and strengthen their ability to apply new learning within real-world healthcare settings. These sessions also provide support in areas such as resume development, preparation for future applications, professional networking, and broader career readiness.

Mentorship

Each participant will be matched with an experienced ACN mentor who will provide ongoing guidance, encouragement throughout the program. Mentors will support participants’ professional growth, help them navigate challenges, and serve as a trusted resource as they progress toward their career goals.

Eligibility criteria

• Hold current registration as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
• Minimum of five years of nursing experience 
• Must be an ACN member
• Currently serving on a board or aspiring to be a board member  
  

The Kiel Foundation Scholarship is provided to a registered nurse within Australia. Applicants must be working in a health facility in rural or remote area Australia.

Proudly supported by the Kiel Foundation, this scholarship will provide registration, travel and accommodation to attend the ACN National Nursing Forum. The National Nursing Forum will be held in Melbourne from 6 -7 August 2026.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships available: 1

Value of scholarship: $2,500

Eligibility criteria

• Hold a current registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA)
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident of Australia
• Be able to attend the National Nursing Forum for the two days from 6 - 7 August 2026

How can I apply?

To apply you will need:

• AHPRA registration certificate
• Proof of citizenship or permanent residency
• CV
• Proof of employment
• Two nursing referees’ details

Applicants are asked to complete and submit the application form along with the above required documents.

Selection criteria:

• Prove current AHPRA registration, Australian citizenship or permanent residency and availability to attend all three NNF days.
• Show ongoing professional development and the potential for enhanced expertise through the Forum.
• Demonstrate how attending the Forum will improve clinical practice and patient outcomes.
• Highlight leadership abilities and the capacity to guide peers in best nursing practices.
• Outline a clear plan to disseminate acquired knowledge within your professional community.
• Provide a concise CV, proof of employment, and two nursing referees’ details.

The Patricia Slater Award is provided to a registered or enrolled nurse who is a Member of ACN and within the first three years of completing their nursing qualification. Applicants must be working in a health facility in rural or remote area Australia.

The scholarship will provide registration, travel and accommodation to attend the ACN National Nursing Forum.

Applications close 11:59pm AEDT, Tuesday 14 April 2026.

Number of scholarships available: 1

Value of scholarship: $3,000

Eligibility criteria checklist

• Current member of ACN.
• A nurse enrolled or registered working in a rural or remote area of Australia. 
  Rural or remote areas are defined as ASGS remoteness areas RAR 2-5.  See Health Workforce locator to determine eligibility. 
• Completed nursing studies within the past three years.
• Able to attend the National Nursing Forum for the 2 days.

Document checklist

• Completed application
• Evidence of registration with AHPRA
• Evidence of place of employment
• Curriculum vitae
  Please attach a short and concise CV, which includes your qualifications, recent professional development activities and relevant work experience.

Referees

• The names of two nursing references are required. The ACN review committee may contact these referees as part of the assessment process for the scholarships.

Selection Criteria

• The scholarship will be awarded to the applicant who can best demonstrate by attending the ACN National Nursing Forum, the benefit to their professional development and the potential to improve patient outcomes.

Applicants must complete the selection questions and the declaration included in this application.

Applicants will be notified by email of the outcome of their application.The successful applicant will be invited to receive the award at the ACN Oration, Investiture of Fellows and Awards presentation. This will be held at the National Nursing Forum.