Overview
The WA Wine Press Club Industry Development Scholarship is a $2,000 grant designed to support the professional development
of individuals working in, or contributing to, the Western Australian wine
industry.
It's to help inspire,elevate, and build connection within the WA wine industry.
Whether you’re in winemaking, viticulture, hospitality, media, sales, or distribution, this professional development opportunity aims to further your growth, expand your networks, and strengthen your contribution to the WA wine story
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Membership of the WA Wine Press Club is encouraged but not mandatory.
- Be based in Western Australia
- Be actively working in or contributing to the WA wine industry
- Be aged 18 years or over
- Demonstrate clear professional development outcomes and benefit to the WA wine industry
The Application
Applications are now closed for 2026.
Applications for 2028 will open on the 1st March 2028 and must be submitted by 30th April 2028.
Purpose & Use of Funds
The scholarship reflects the Wine Press Club’s commitment to nurturing talent, amplifying voices, and fostering meaningful connections across all sectors of the WA wine industry. It is intended to provide financial assistance for a project, training, or initiative that contributes to professional growth and industry advancement.
The $2,000 scholarship can be used toward:
• Wine education and training (e.g. WSET, short courses, certifications)
• Conferences, workshops, or seminars
• Research or professional development projects
• Mentorship or capability-building programs
Funds cannot be used for:
• General living expenses
• Alcohol purchases
• Entertainment or dining not part of a ticketed program
• Personal equipment (phones, laptops)
• Family or companion travel costs
• travel
• Cash withdrawals, gift cards, or retrospective expenses without approval
Statement of Intent
Applicants will be asked to respond to the following questions. Responses should be concise but thoughtful.
(Recommended total word count: 600–800 words.)
1. Tell us about yourself and your role in the WA wine industry.(If you’re not currently employed in the industry, explain your connection to it and why it matters to you.)
2. How would receiving this scholarship support your professional development?(Outline what you would like to do with the funds and how this aligns with your goals.)
3. How will your project,initiative, or learning benefit the WA wine industry more broadly?
4. What inspires you about WA wine, and what role do you hope to play in its future?
5. Please provide the name and contact details of one industry referee who can support your application.(This can be a colleague, mentor, employer, educator or collaborator from within the WA wine community.)
Selection Criteria
Connection to the WA wine industry
Demonstrates active involvement or a clear, tangible connection to WA wine.
Shows commitment to contributing to the industry’s future.
Impact and clarity of proposed development
Clearly articulates how the funds will be
used.
Proposal is realistic, meaningful and aligned with the applicant’s professional or creative goals.
Potential to elevate and inspire
Demonstrates potential for leadership, innovation, or contribution to a more vibrant WA wine community.
Has the ability to positively influence or share learnings with others in the sector.
Passion and vision
Shows genuine enthusiasm for the WA wine industry.
Expresses a compelling vision for personal growth and broader industry impact.
Presentation and communication
Application is clearly written, engaging, and professional.
Reflects the values of the Wine Press Club: connection, integrity, and promotion of WA wine in a positive, inclusive and responsible way.
Applications will be assessed by a minimum of three WA Wine Press Club committee members. Conflicts of interest must be declared. Any committee member with a conflict will not assess or vote on the relevant
application.
Award Legalities
Award Payment
The scholarship may be paid directly to a course provider or supplier where
possible. Where reimbursement is required, valid tax invoices or receipts must be provided.
Funds may be paid as a lump sum or in staged payments aligned to milestones such as proof of enrolment or booking.
The recipient is responsible for any personal tax obligations.
Variation, Aquittal & Repayment
Any material change to the approved use of funds must be approved in writing by the WA Wine Press Club prior to expenditure.
Recipients must provide a short written acquittal (300–500 words) and copies of receipts within 60 days of completing the funded activity, or within 12 months
of receiving funds, whichever occurs first.
Unspent or misused funds must be returned. Failure to comply may result in repayment and ineligibility for future scholarships.
Recipient Obligations
Recipients agree to:
- Acknowledge the WA Wine Press Club in related publicity
- Participate in at least one WA Wine Press Club activity if requested
- Provide a short report within 6 months
- Conduct themselves in a
manner that does not bring the Club into disrepute
Privacy & Publicity
Applicant information will be used solely for administering the scholarship and
retained for up to 24 months.
Recipients consent to the publication of their name, role, and scholarship
outcomes for promotional purposes.
Discretion & Governance
The WA Wine Press Club is proud to support the next generation of wine professionals, communicators and leaders. This scholarship reflects our ongoing commitment to education, excellence and the continued growth of Western Australian wine. The committee reserves the right not to award the scholarship if no suitable application is received.
All decisions are final. The scholarship will be reviewed annually and administered in accordance with any applicable bequest conditions.