Scholarship applications are currently closed

The South Australian Leadership Academy (SALA) scholarships are recurring and support the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategy (external site) which aims to build a diverse, equitable and inclusive public sector workforce where everyone belongs and is valued.

Diversity and inclusion help create a modern, innovative public sector that better serves our community. By providing learning and professional development opportunities, we aim to support the career progression of current and aspiring leaders from diverse backgrounds.

We encourage potential applicants to visit our website for the latest information on scholarship application opening dates.

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Eligibility

Scholarships are available to South Australian public sector employees who:

  • meet the below classification levels listed below and
  • identify as belonging to one or more of the following groups:
    • Autistic
    • Neurodiverse (other than Autistic)
    • LGBTIQA+
    • Women
    • With disability
    • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander
    • From a culturally and linguistically diverse background
    • Youth (under 25 years of age) or mature aged worker (over 60 years of age).

Classification eligibility

  • Manager Essentials: ASO5 to ASO7 (or equivalent)
  • Next Executives: ASO7 (and equivalent) and above.

Eligibility requirements for the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships may differ. However, you must meet the classification requirements listed above for your chosen program, not the ‘Who can apply’ section for individual programs.

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Cost

There is no cost to agencies for staff to undertake the scholarships.

  • The Manager Essentials Program is valued at $3,300 (+GST) per participant.
  • The Next Execs Program is valued at $12,900 (+GST) per participant.
  • The Executive Excellence Program is valued at $12,900 (+GST) per participant.

These costs are fully covered by OCPSE for successful scholarship recipients.

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Selection process

The selection panel will assess applications using the Scholarship Selection Matrix.

The matrix criteria are based on the three fundamentals of the Leadership Excellence Framework:

  • Advance - govern well
  • Inspire - lead well
  • Deliver - manage well.

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Frequently asked questions

Explore the frequently asked questions for the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships to find answers, tips, and key details that can help strengthen your application.

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How to apply

To apply for a scholarship:

Step 1: Complete the application form 

Click the Apply now button below.

Step 2: Upload your leadership document

Upload one of the following documents that explains how the program would assist in your leadership journey and your career in the South Australian public sector:

  • a statement (maximum 250 words)
  • a 2-minute video
  • a 2-minute voice recording
  • a 1-page visual document

Include leadership characteristics and behavioural examples from both the workplace and outside the workplace, such as community leadership.

Step 3: Upload a recommendation letter 

Upload one letter of recommendation from a manager, peer or mentor.

The letter should:

  • confirm your leadership potential
  • outline your strengths and achievements
  • provide examples of your leadership in the workplace or community

Before submitting your application:

Make sure you:

  • Have your manager’s support and can attend all parts of the program for the time required.
  • Complete all details in the online application form.
    • The system only accepts certain file formats and sizes. Follow the instructions in the form.
  • Review your application and check that it addresses the selection criteria in the Scholarship Selection Matrix.
  • Upload one recommendation letter from a peer, mentor or manager. Only one letter can be accepted.
  • Select ‘Submit’.
    • You will receive a confirmation email with an application receipt number.