Unlocking Big Dreams, Creating Bright Futures: The Dream Big Awards
Our Dream Big Awards (formerly the Pursuit Awards) were established in 2018 to offer tertiary scholarship recipients and alumni a unique opportunity to fast-track their learning through once-in-a-lifetime educational or professional experiences, valued at up to $6,000.
These awards empower recipients to seize life-changing opportunities aligned with their professional or educational goals, giving young people the chance to dream big and pursue their chosen path.
The 2026 Dream Big Awards are proudly sponsored by Melbourne Airport.
Applications open 18th September
It’s Time to Dream Big!
Applications will open on 18th September for the 2026 Dream Big Awards, with two Awards available, worth $6,000 each.
To be eligible for the Western Chances Dream Big Awards:
Applicants must be a Western Chances alumni or current tertiary recipient
The opportunity must contribute to the advancement of your education and/or professional development and be aligned to your pathway
The opportunity must be taken between 1 January 2026 and 31 December 2026
Applicants will be asked to consider the full costs associated with taking up the opportunity and whether they can fund any shortfall between the total cost and the Award
Applications will close on Friday, 10th October at 5.00pm. Outcomes will be advised by early November 2025.
Additional information.
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To be eligible for the Western Chances Dream Big Awards:
Applicants must be a Western Chances alumni or current tertiary recipient
The opportunity must contribute to the advancement of your education and/or professional development and be aligned to your pathway
The opportunity must be undertaken between the upcoming calendar year
Applicants will be asked to consider the full costs associated with taking up the opportunity and whether they can fund any shortfall between the total cost and the Award
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The Dream Big Awards will cover a variety of opportunities, including conferences, workshops, summits, and courses, designed to support both personal and professional development.
The opportunity can be undertaken within Australia or overseas
Awards can cover items including airfares, accommodation, conference registration, transfers & insurance. Awards will not cover university fees
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Successful applicants will be required to provide the following documents prior to the Award payments being made:
Outline of how the total Award funds will be used
Proof of registration (if attending a Conference, workshop etc)
Travel insurance statement (if travelling overseas)
Receipts of any pre-paid expenses (as approved in the application)
Bank details
Upon receipt of the above items, the Award payment will be made in full to the recipient.
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Successful applicants will be required to provide an acquittal report within 1 month of the completion of their Award experience being undertaken.
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Dream Big recipients will be acknowledged at the annual Western Chances Scholarship Award Ceremony held in March 2026.
Long - 2025 Dream Big Award winner
“I’ve come back to Australia excited and inspired by the advancements of technology and it’s amazing potential to do so much good for the world.”
Long was the recipient of a 2025 Award, which supported his travel to London to participate in London Tech Week.
“Thank you, Western Chances, for believing in my potential and providing a platform that continues to empower young people to not only dream big, but to go out into the world and bring those dreams back home to share with others.
The insights gained will directly impact my work, my volunteer roles and the potential for a more innovative and impactful Australian tech ecosystem.”
