Unions NSW Jeff Shaw Memorial Scholarship

The Public Education Foundation’s Unions NSW Jeff Shaw Memorial Scholarships support public school students studying curriculum subjects with aspects of unionism such as Economics, Business Studies, Legal Studies and Modern History. The scholarships particularly target students whose personal circumstances may limit their opportunity to reach their full potential.

The scholarships are funded by Unions NSW, which represents more than 600,000 union members. As the peak body for the state’s trade unions, Unions NSW campaigns to improve the conditions of workers, including ensuring that workers receive decent wages, fair conditions and a safe workplace.

The scholarships are named in memory of the Honourable Jeff Shaw QC who began his career as an industrial officer with the Public Sector Association and later served as NSW Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations (1995–2000), and a judge of the Supreme Court of NSW. A former student of Hunters Hill High School, Jeff Shaw was a staunch advocate for public education and workers’ rights.

Each scholarship provides $2,500 in Year 12 to support educational resources and services that improve student outcomes.

Eligible Expenses Include:

  • Incidental fees (e.g. textbook hire, specialised subject costs)
  • Uniforms and equipment
  • Stationery and general supplies
  • Textbooks
  • Laptop, iPad or similar device
  • Study-related software
  • Printer
  • Internet access for study
  • School excursions and camps
  • Study furniture (desk, chair, lamp)
  • Face-to-face or online tutoring

If a student leaves public school before the end of Year 12, the scholarship will lapse. Please note: the scholarship may be withdrawn if attendance falls below an acceptable level. Unspent funds must be returned to the Public Education Foundation.

Before applying, please read the scholarship terms and conditions.

Basic Eligibility

  • Currently enrolled in Year 11 in 2025 at a NSW public school
  • Australian citizen or permanent resident
  • Currently studying Economics, Business Studies, Legal Studies or Modern History

Selection Criteria

  • Interest in one or more of the designated subjects
  • Demonstrated alignment with Union Movement values
  • Demonstrated academic potential and need for financial support
  • Positive school attitude and high attendance
  • Intention to complete the HSC and pursue further education
  • Active participation in school and community life

Selection Process

A panel comprising Public Education Foundation staff, a Unions NSW representative, and independent experts will assess applications. Recommendations will be submitted to the Foundation’s Board. Successful applicants will be notified by email in December 2025. Principals of successful students will also be notified.

How to Apply

Submit your application via our online portal: PEF-Apply. All sections must be completed, including the Principal’s Supporting Statement.

Information Required:

  • Applicant details: name, gender, DOB, phone, address, email
  • Residency status (Visa or Citizenship certificate)
  • Parent/guardian details: name, relationship, contact, email
  • School details: name, address, principal name and email
  • School point of contact: name, phone, email
  • Background info: cultural background, home languages, caregiver structure, disability, care status, socio-economic background, etc.
  • Statement on Union Movement values (max 150 words)
  • Personal statement addressing selection criteria (max 400 words)
  • Post-HSC goals (max 150 words)
  • Subject/work alignment with goals (max 250 words)
  • Statement on use of scholarship funds (max 150 words)
  • Most recent school report (all pages)
  • Reference from a teacher/counsellor (PDF or Word, max 400 words)
  • Principal’s statement submitted online via the application form

Note for Principals: Your statement is critical. Provide detailed and original feedback. Generic or copy/paste responses will disadvantage applicants.

Submitting Your Application

Once all sections are complete, submit online.

Deadline: 5:00pm on Friday, 19 September 2025

Further Information

Contact the Public Education Foundation on (02) 7814 2806 or email scholarships@publiceducationfoundation.org.au.