2026 Churchill Fellowship recipients announced

75 Churchill Fellowship recipients to bring the world’s best ideas home 

Seventy-five Australians from all walks of life have been awarded Churchill Fellowships, joining a network of changemakers that has helped shape Australia’s future for more than 60 years. 

The recipients were bold enough to answer the call, courageous enough to apply, and backed themselves to turn their ideas into action. 

From strengthening communities and improving health and safety to advancing the arts, education, sustainability and innovation, the topics reflect what matters most to local communities. Each recipient will travel overseas to learn directly from world-leading experts and organisations, bringing that knowledge home to inspire innovation, influence policy and drive positive change. 

For more than 60 years, the Churchill Trust has invested in people’s curiosity and commitment to help shape a better future for Australia. 

Churchill Trust CEO Christine Dacey said Churchill Fellowships are founded on the belief that the best ideas can come from anyone. 

“Churchill Fellows come from every corner of Australia and every walk of life. What unites them is their curiosity, commitment and determination to create positive change.” 

“A Churchill Fellowship gives them the opportunity to be there, alongside the people, places and ideas shaping change around the world. They return with the knowledge, connections and confidence to create the change that matters at home.” 

The influence of Churchill Fellows can already be seen across Australia. Their work has helped establish initiatives including dementia-friendly ambulances, public toilet reform, unit pricing in supermarkets and therapy dogs in court. 

Applications for 2027 open in February. Open to every Australian and permanent resident over 18 years of age. Find out more at churchilltrust.com.au 

What if you’re exactly who we’re looking for?