The program offers two scholarship streams for students commencing tertiary study in 2027:
Priority tertiary scholarships
- Up to $80,000 over four years
- An additional $10,000 after completing one year of postgraduate work in the dairy industry or a dairy community
- Priority given to students who choose to study locally at their nearest tertiary institution rather than relocating to undertake their studies
- Priority fields include agriculture, agribusiness, food science and nutrition, engineering, medicine and veterinary science
- Up to five scholarships available
Regional scholarships
- Up to $30,000 to $40,000 over three to four years
- Open to students commencing study at a regional university or college
- Priority fields include agriculture, animal science, business, engineering, food science and nutrition, and health
- Up to three scholarships available
Gardiner CEO Allan Cameron said the scholarships help young people access education while strengthening the future workforce of Victoria’s dairy regions.
“These scholarships back students from dairy communities to pursue their ambitions and develop skills that are needed across the dairy industry and regional Victoria,” Mr Cameron said.
“We know where people come from, study and complete placements can influence where they ultimately build their careers.
“By supporting both metropolitan and regional study pathways, we want to help more young people maintain their connection to dairy communities and ultimately build their futures there.”
The program was expanded in 2025 to respond to workforce needs across fields including healthcare, engineering, veterinary science, food technology, agriculture and agribusiness.
Gardiner awarded 12 tertiary scholarships in 2026, representing an investment of $705,000 in students from across Victoria’s dairy regions.
Since 2008, Gardiner has awarded more than 90 tertiary scholarships to students from Victorian dairy communities. More than 70 per cent of past scholars have remained in, or returned to, dairy regions.
The scholarships are named in honour of respected dairy leaders Neil Black, Shirley Harlock, Jakob Malmo, Bill Pyle, Doug Weir and Max Fehring, recognising their contribution to Victoria’s dairy industry.
Applications close 5pm Monday November 23.
Students can review the scholarship guidelines and apply at gardinerfoundation.com.au/people-in-dairy/tertiary-scholarships
