All you need to know
Scholarships

We believe every child in Western Australia deserves the chance to reach their full potential.

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Before You Apply

Please review the eligibility criteria below to confirm your child meets the requirement

You may be eligible if:

• Your child is aged 0–18 years (17 at the time of application) and lives in Western Australia
• Your child is living with disability, chronic illness or experiencing disadvantage
• Your child has demonstrated talent and is actively developing their skills at a higher level.

Documents Required To Apply

Don’t worry - most families already have these documents or can easily get them.

A medical letter

A recent letter from your child’s GP or paediatrician confirming or explaining their diagnosis.

A therapist letter

A letter from your child’s coach, tutor or relevant professional that confirms their ability, commitment and recent progress in their chosen field.

Proof of household income

Recent documents
(within 6 months):

• Two recent pay slips, and/or
• Two Centrelink statements
• If self-employed: your most recent tax return or Notice of Assessment.

Cost estimate

An estimate of coaching, training, tuition or development costs relevant to your child’s chosen field for the next 12 months.

How the Application Process Works

Scholarship applications typically open in late September and close at the end of November (dates may vary).

All applications are reviewed carefully and confidentially by the Variety WA Scholarship Panel, which includes individuals with experience across sport, the arts and academic development. Outcomes are usually provided in the first quarter of the following year

Application

Complete the application form and upload your supporting documents, including referee letters and a cost estimate.

You will receive a confirmation email once your application has been submitted

Assessment

Our team will review your application to ensure it meets the eligibility criteria and includes all required information.

Outcome

You will receive an email with the outcome of your application and any next steps.

If your application is approved, funding will be provided to support your child’s development in line with the approved scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions

The letter should outline:
• Your child’s strengths and level of ability
• Recent achievements, milestones or performance level
• Their commitment, attitude and work ethic
• Why additional support would help them progress further

Variety Heart Scholarships provide practical support to help children continue developing their talent.

This may include coaching or tuition, training programs, competition or entry fees, equipment and supplies, uniforms or costumes, and travel related to competitions (for the recipient only).

You can apply if your child:
• Is aged 6–18 years (17 at the time of application)
• Lives in Western Australia
• Has demonstrated strong talent and commitment in sport, the arts or academics
• Is living with sickness, disability, geographically isolated or experiencing disadvantage

Scholarships are designed for children who have demonstrated a strong level of ability and are progressing beyond participation.

This may include competing at state or national level, performing at an advanced level, or showing clear progression towards higher levels of achievement.

Applications are reviewed by an independent panel with experience across sport, the arts and academic development.
They consider:
• Level of talent and demonstrated ability
• Commitment and progression
• Potential for further development
• The impact the scholarship would have

If your application is approved, scholarship funding is paid to the recipient’s nominated bank account in four instalments, at times determined by Variety.

Eligible applications are assessed based on:
• Financial need and disadvantage
• Impact and necessity of the support requested
• Family or community circumstances
• Alignment with Variety WA’s mission

Scholarships generally do not cover:
• School fees or curriculum-based tutoring
• Retrospective funding (items already purchased)
• Travel costs not directly related to the recipient (including fuel, parking and vehicle expenses)
• Family or household expenses
• Ongoing maintenance or repairs

Yes, previous recipients can apply in future rounds.

However, scholarships are not guaranteed each year, and all applications are assessed independently based on current information and available funding. Returning applicants should complete a new application each year.

We’re Here to Help

Our team can guide you through the process.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or need help completing the form, please contact Variety Western Australia.
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