Fellow portal

Churchill Timetable

This page outlines the whole selection process and key timeframes for Churchill Fellowship applications over the course of a year.

Date / Period	Key Activity	What you should be doing at this point
December – February	Planning Your Application	Begin shaping your topic. Clarify why travel is essential and what impact your project could create. Identify your personal + professional referees early. Start refining your pitch and consider the countries you need to visit. Practice writing concisely — character limits apply. Begin thinking about the structure of your 1-minute video.
February	Information Sessions	Churchill Fellowship Information Sessions are designed to help you understand the Fellowship application process and learn how to back yourself when writing your own proposed Fellowship program. Eight-category specific online sessions In-person events across Australia.
Late February	Applications Open	Begin writing your application. Keep responses clear and focused. Address: why the project matters, why overseas travel is required, and how Australia benefits. Prepare and record your 1-minute VideoAsk pitch (must be submitted within the form). Use a personal email to avoid email firewall issues.
March – April	Application Writing Period	Finalise your written responses. Confirm your itinerary is achievable and relevant. Ensure referees are ready. Submit early to avoid last-minute issues. Once submitted, look for your acknowledgment email (check spam/junk).
Late April	Applications Close	No further changes allowed. Ensure your submission confirmation email is received.
May – July	Panel Review & Shortlisting	No action required. Panels assess your project (benefit, feasibility, need) and you as an applicant (skills, leadership, potential for impact after the Fellowship).
May – July	Unsuccessful – Not Shortlisted	Applicants who are not shortlisted will be notified during this period.
June – July	Interviews	Prepare for interviews. Noting you may have up to two. Final interviews are in person unless adjustments are approved. Prepare clear examples showing why you are the right person to undertake the project. Missing an interview means you cannot proceed.
July – August	Unsuccessful – Post-Interview	Applicants who are not recommended to the Board are notified in this period.
July – August	Recommended Applicants Notified	If recommended to the Board, you’ll receive instructions to complete additional forms. Recommendation is not a guaranteed Fellowship.
September	Final Selection – Board Decision	All applicants are notified of the outcome. Successful applicants are publicly announced. Be prepared for potential media interest. Guidance on media engagement will be provided.
Mid October	Mandatory Onboarding (Canberra)	Attend onboarding sessions on travel planning, expectations, reporting requirements, and risk guidance.
1 November – 15 Months After	Fellowship Travel Window	Undertake your Fellowship within this period. Travel must align with your approved itinerary.
12 Weeks After Completion	Final Report Due	Submit your Fellowship report. Final grant payment is dependent on approval of your report.