Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships
Funding and costs
How to apply
- What does the selection process involve?
- If I choose to submit a written application, can I use dot points?
- Does my application need to be based on leadership behaviours and characteristics from the workplace?
- Can I include additional attachments?
- Do I need to complete any other forms besides the scholarship application?
- What time do applications close?
Program requirements
- Do the programs have any prerequisite requirements?
- Can I still apply for a scholarship if I am not in a managerial role or do not have any direct reports?
- What is required to complete the course if I am successful in obtaining a scholarship?
- Are there any other obligations in acceptance of a scholarship?
After you apply
Need help?
Does my agency or I need to contribute any funds for this scholarship if I am successful?
No. The costs are covered in full by the Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment. You will, however, need your manager's approval to attend the training. Program schedules can be found on the South Australian Leadership Academy’s website.
What does the selection process involve?
Applicants who meet the eligibility criteria will then be assessed by a panel of up to three suitably qualified public sector employees using the Scholarship Selection Matrix.
If I choose to submit a written application, can I use dot points?
Yes. Your written application can be in any format if it meets the 250-word limit. Further information can be found on plain language writing in the Australian Government Style Manual (external site) (external site).
Does my application need to be based on leadership behaviours and characteristics from the workplace?
No. You are welcome to submit an application that includes examples external to your workplace, such as leadership displayed in community.
Can I include additional attachments?
No. To ensure an equitable selection process, the scholarship selection panel will not consider additional documents beyond an applicant’s primary submission (maximum 250 word written statement OR a two-minute video OR two-minute voice recording OR a one-page visual document) and one recommendation letter.
If you would like to discuss your application format, please email OCPSELeadershipAcademy@sa.gov.au or telephone 1800 317 333.
Do I need to complete any other forms besides the scholarship application?
No. If your application is successful, the Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment (OCPSE) will contact you for further details and how to register for the program.
Do the programs have any prerequisite requirements?
No. There are no prior learnings or knowledge needed to participate in the programs. You do need to meet the eligibility criteria to apply for a scholarship.
Can I still apply for a scholarship if I am not in a managerial role or do not have any direct reports?
Yes, however we encourage you to discuss your participation with your manager or agency leadership team to explore how a program could align with your career goals and development plan.
What is required to complete the course if I am successful in obtaining a scholarship?
Manager Essentials
The Manager Essentials program is a four-month commitment requiring in person attendance for a half day open and close and four full day workshops.
Next Execs
The Next Execs program is a 10-month commitment requiring in person attendance for two full day workshops, three 60-minute virtual sessions and five weeks of independent learning (approx. two hours per week).
Participants enrolled in the award pathway (Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Leadership through Flinders University) will also complete additional academic reading, research, and assessments, approximately 4 weeks of work per module.
Are there any other obligations in acceptance of a scholarship?
Yes. It would be expected, if required, that you would give back by contributing to advancing the scholarship program for future cohorts. For example, you may be asked to be on the selection panel, provide advice to future scholarship recipients or invited to take part in scholarship promotional material.
If I am successful in receiving a scholarship what information will be shared with my agency?
If you are successful, your manager/agency may be advised that you have been the recipient of an OCPSE Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarship, however, OCPSE will not disclose any further information about your application e.g. the eligibility criteria that you selected.
What if I miss the application closing date?
Unfortunately, we do not accept applications after the closing date. We open applications up to twice a year and recommend that you keep checking the South Australian Leadership Academy’s website for the next opening date.
If I am unsuccessful this round, can I still apply for following rounds?
Yes. If you are unsuccessful in one round, you are still eligible to apply for future scholarships.
Your application will not automatically roll over into the next program. You will need to resubmit your application each round.
Can I still register to attend a leadership program?
Yes. Applicants with agency approval may still register for a leadership program through the usual registration process.
If a scholarship is awarded, a refund, credit or transfer will be offered to the agency.
What time do applications close?
Applications close at 11:59pm on the published closing date.
Who do I contact if I need more information?
If you have questions about the Leadership Development scholarships or need general information, please contact the South Australian Leadership Academy team:
- Email: OCPSELeadershipAcademy@sa.gov.au
- Phone: 1800 317 333