2019 New Colombo Plan scholars announced

The New Colombo Plan will support 125 scholars from across Australia to live, study, learn a language and gain work experience in 24 locations throughout the Indo-Pacific in 2019.

Now in its fifth year, the New Colombo Plan is helping Australian undergraduates develop a deep understanding of the Indo-Pacific and equipping them with the cross-cultural skills needed to succeed in a region that is crucial to Australia's prosperity and security.

The 2019 scholarships also reflect the priority the Australian Government places on its engagement with the Pacific. Eleven undergraduates will study in the Pacific, including the first scholars heading to Samoa, the Cook Islands and French Polynesia.

The scholars represent the diversity of Australia and include six Indigenous Australians and six students who live with a disability. Thirty per cent are from regional and remote Australia, 17 per cent are the first in their families to study at university, and one in five are from a lower socio-economic background.

Australian businesses continue to be strong supporters of the New Colombo Plan, recognising the importance of developing leaders with experience and connections in the region. We thank PwC Australia, QBE Insurance, GHD, Newcrest Mining Ltd and King & Wood Mallesons for sponsoring eight scholarships in 2019.

The New Colombo Plan alumni community keeps scholars connected with each other and the Indo-Pacific. We are delighted to welcome 43 incoming New Colombo Plan Alumni Ambassadors, from all states and territories, who will promote the program and the Indo-Pacific region in their universities and communities.