City Of Canning Partners with Murdoch University to Support Local Young Leaders

The City of Canning is investing in the future of local young people through a new partnership with Murdoch University, helping Canning residents take the next step towards university and continue making a positive impact in their community.

For the first time, the City of Canning and Murdoch University have collaborated to offer a dedicated City of Canning stream of the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship for young people aged 19 to 25 living within the City.

The scholarship is designed for young people who are entering university after a minimum of 12 months post-secondary school who have demonstrated leadership, advocacy or meaningful community involvement in one of three areas: Sustainability, First Nations or Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Scholarship nominees must meet the university’s entry requirements for a Bachelor Degree, which can be met via Year 12 results, accredited CertIV, a University Enabling Pathway, or Portfolio / Experience Based Entry.

Successful applicants will receive a $12,000 scholarship from Murdoch University, paid in semester instalments over three years, as well as access to leadership and development mentoring throughout their academic journey.

As part of the partnership, the City of Canning will provide an additional equipment grant of up to $500 to each successful City of Canning scholarship recipient, for a maximum of five recipients.

The City’s contribution of up to $2,500 will help recipients buy equipment and study essentials needed to begin their academic journey, such as laptops and textbooks.

This partnership also supports the City of Canning’s Learning City Framework and builds on Canning’s status as a UNESCO Learning City, by creating local pathways that encourage lifelong learning, leadership and community participation.

City of Canning Mayor Patrick Hall said the partnership was an opportunity to recognise young people who were already making meaningful contributions to their communities and support them to achieve their future ambitions.

“Across Canning, we have young people who are already demonstrating leadership and creating positive change through their workplaces, volunteering, advocacy and involvement in their communities,” Mayor Hall said.

“This partnership is about recognising what they have already achieved and giving them additional support to take the next step in their education.”

“We also know that the pathway to university looks different for everyone. Going to university does not have to happen immediately after Year 12, and the experiences and skills young people gain through work, volunteering and their communities can be incredibly valuable.”

“We are proud to partner with Murdoch University for the first time on this scholarship initiative and provide practical support to local recipients as they begin the next chapter of their education.”

Applicants must demonstrate proactive and impactful leadership through their community, workplace or study in at least one of the scholarship’s three focus areas.

The Sustainability category recognises young people leading positive environmental change, including initiatives around waste avoidance, conservation, community gardens, habitat regeneration and sustainable living. 

The First Nations category recognises First Nations applicants who demonstrate positive leadership within their community.

The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion category recognises young people whose advocacy or activities encourage and support greater inclusion of people from under-represented, diverse or marginalised backgrounds.

Murdoch University Vice Chancellor Andrew Deeks said the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarships were the first of their kind in Western Australia, and a reflection of the University’s commitment to Sustainability; First Nations; and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.

“Social justice, environmental stewardship and inclusivity are at the heart of everything Murdoch University stands for, along with our commitment to education excellence and innovation,” Professor Deeks said.

“Starting locally and driving change in your own community is a fantastic way to make a difference and we are thrilled to be able to extend this scholarship program to changemakers in Canning.

“We extend our thanks to the City of Canning for helping to deliver this new scholarship.” 

Kimberly received a Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship in 2025 in recognition of her First Nations leadership while at high school. Kimberley promoted Indigenous culture across NAIDOC Week, where she baked over 300 cookies using native ingredients and organised an Indigenous Yidaki (didgeridoo) performance, and is now studying Business at Murdoch.

"As a proud inaugural recipient of the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship I highly recommend people who are passionate in promoting sustainability, inclusivity, diversity and equity including those who raise awareness on First Nations culture to apply for this prestigious and honourable scholarship.”

“This scholarship recognises and celebrates individuals who make lasting, impactful contributions to our society. Receiving this honour has profoundly encouraged and inspired me to advance sustainable, community-centred initiatives and advocate for a better and brighter future for our entire community." She said.

Applications are submitted directly to Murdoch University and require applicants to provide a personal statement outlining their activities, motivation and impact, along with two references supporting their application.

Successful applicants must also receive and accept an offer into any Bachelor degree course at Murdoch University to receive the scholarship. 

Applications for the City of Canning stream of the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship are now open. 

For eligibility requirements, application information and closing dates, visit the Murdoch University Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship webpage at murdoch.edu.au/explore/about-murdoch/a-brighter-future/scholarships-for-good/canning