Sydney Royal Wine Scholarships
The Sydney Royal Wine Show, established in 1826, is one of the most prestigious wine shows in Australia, annually attracting over 2,200 entries from more than 350 producers across Australia.
The RAS Wine Committee together with the RAS Foundation, offer two national scholarship programs: the Sydney Royal Wine Study Scholarship and the Sydney Royal Wine Professional Development Scholarship. These scholarships are funded by the RAS Wine Committee from the sale of excess stock from the Sydney Royal Wine Show, and honour the memory and contribution of Graham Thorp, Chair of the RAS Wine Committee from 1984-1990.
Since 2021, The Len Evans Tutorial Foundation has also sponsored a scholar to attend the Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC) by the Australian Wine Research Institute (AWRI).
The purpose of these scholarships is to encourage and support professionals who are passionate about wine and committed to forging careers that will contribute to the Australian wine industry.
Applications for the Sydney Royal Wine Study Scholarship and the Sydney Royal Wine Professional Development Scholarship are open now, and close on Monday 8 September 2025..
Sydney Royal Wine Study Scholarship
Who can apply?
The Sydney Royal Wine Study Scholarships are available to support those studying a wine related course at any Australian university, TAFE or college. Applicants can be studying a range of certificates, degrees and courses covering skills in Viticulture, Oenology, Agricultural Science, Horticulture, Lab Technology.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be studying at university, TAFE or college, on campus or by distance learning, and have a desire to play an active role in the future of the Australian wine industry.
Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Applicants must be under 30 years of age.
Applicants should be available to attend the 2026 Sydney Royal Wine Show (July 2026).
Scholarships available:
Scholarships are up to $6,000 depending on the course chosen.
Sydney Royal Wine Professional Development Scholarships
Who can apply?
The Sydney Royal Wine Professional Development Scholarships are available to support those already working in the wine industry who wish to further their knowledge and skills.
Courses included in this scholarship:
Australian Wine Research Institute's (AWRI):
- Advanced Wine Assessment Course (AWAC)
- Advanced Viticulture course
Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) courses:
- Level 1, 2, 3 or 4 in Wines
- Level 1, 2 or 3 in Spirits
- Level 1 or 3 in Sake
Wine Service (including Sommelier) courses.
Eligibility:
Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
Applicants must be employed in the Australian wine industry or studying a related course.
Applicants should be available to attend the 2026 Sydney Royal Wine Show (July 2026).
Scholarships available:
Scholarships of up to $6,000 are available depending on the professional development course chosen.
