Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships

Use the links below to navigate to specific sections of this page:



Do I or my agency 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 approval to attend the training. Program schedules can be found on the South Australian Leadership Academy’s website.

Back to top ^

What does the selection process involve?

Candidates 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.

Back to top ^

If I choose to submit a written application, can I use dot points?

Yes.  Further information can be found on plain language writing in the Australian Government Style Manual (external site).

Back to top ^

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.

Back to top ^

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 2-minute video OR 2-minute video recording OR a 1-page visual document) and recommendation letter).

If you would like to discuss your application format, please email OCPSELeadershipAcademy@sa.gov.au or telephone 1800 317 333.

Back to top ^

Do I need to complete any other forms besides the scholarship application?

No. You do not need to complete any other forms, as the scholarship is only an expression of interest in the program, and if your application is successful, the Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment (OCPSE) will contact you for further details.

Back to top ^

Do the programs have any prerequisite requirements?

Yes. Applicants must be at the AS05 to AS07 (or equivalent) for the Manager Essentials Program, and SAES level (or equivalent) and above for the Executive Excellence Program.

Back to top ^

What is required to complete the course if I am successful in obtaining a scholarship?

The Manager Essentials is a four-month commitment requiring in person attendance for a half day open and close and four full day workshops.

The Executive Excellence Program is a four-month commitment requiring in person attendance for a half day open and seven full day workshops. Virtual attendance will also be required for three ninety-minute webinars and three one-hour coaching sessions.

Back to top ^

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.

Back to top ^

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.

Back to top ^

What if I miss the application closing date?

Unfortunately, we do not accept applications after the closing date. However, we open applications at the beginning of each year and recommend that you keep checking the South Australian Leadership Academy’s website for openings.

Back to top ^

If I am unsuccessful this round, can I still apply for following rounds?

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 year.

Back to top ^

Can I still register to attend a leadership program?

Yes. Applicants with agency approval may still register for the Manager Essentials or Executive Excellence leadership programs.

If a scholarship is awarded, a refund, credit or transfer will be offered to the agency.

Back to top ^

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:

Back to top ^