Human Rights Scholarship – University of Melbourne 2026

The scholarship is intended to support research that advances understanding, protection, and promotion of human rights. It encourages interdisciplinary inquiry into legal, political, social, and cultural dimensions of human rights issues.

Applicants are expected to undertake research that contributes meaningfully to the human rights field, both academically and through broader societal engagement.

Key focus areas include:

• Human rights law and policy

• Social justice and equality

• Indigenous rights and reconciliation

• International human rights frameworks

• Humanitarian and development studies

• Political and ethical dimensions of human rights

The programme emphasizes research that extends beyond academic output to real-world impact.

Scholarship Benefits

The Human Rights Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to successful candidates, ensuring they can fully dedicate themselves to their research.

The benefits include:

• Full tuition fee remission for the duration of the degree

• Living allowance of approximately AUD $44,500 per year (2026 rate), indexed annually.

• Support duration of up to 2 years for Master’s by Research or up to 3.5–4 years for Doctoral studies

• Relocation allowance of AUD $2,000 for interstate moves or AUD $3,000 for international relocation

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for international students requiring a student visa

• Additional limited paid leave provisions, including sick, maternity, and parenting leave

The total value of the scholarship ranges between approximately AUD $89,000 and $155,000 depending on study level and duration.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must meet specific academic and research requirements.

Eligible candidates must:

• Have received an offer for a graduate research programme commencing in the award year

• Intend to conduct research specifically in the field of Human Rights

• Not already hold a research qualification at the same or higher level than the proposed study

• Meet the entry requirements for graduate research at the University of Melbourne

The scholarship is open to both domestic and international students, making it globally accessible.

Selection Process

The selection process is highly competitive and based on academic merit and research potential.

Applicants are assessed by a selection panel based on:

• Academic record and prior research achievements

• Quality and originality of the proposed research project

• Alignment with human rights scholarship objectives

• Demonstrated commitment to human rights beyond academic study

The highest-ranked candidates are awarded the scholarship based on overall evaluation scores.

Required Application Statement

Applicants must submit an online application that includes a detailed statement outlining their engagement with human rights.

This statement should demonstrate:

• Commitment to the peaceful advancement of human rights

• Evidence of involvement in voluntary work, advocacy, or professional experience