When do applications open?
Applications will open on Monday, March 8, 2021.
Who are the fellowships for?
The fellowships are for aspiring journalists to develop their newsroom experience with a leading news provider. Applicants must be aged 30 or under at the time of applying.
I’m a working journalist, can I apply?
The fellowships are intended to help aspiring journalists to enter the industry and establish a career. Applicants can be currently doing journalism, but must not be working as journalists full-time or earning the majority of their income from journalism.
What kind of skills and experience are the judges looking for in applicants?
The judges are looking for a demonstrated passion for journalism. Applicants must show excellent presentation, research and writing skills, experience in interviewing people and pitching story ideas and have the ability to spot a newsworthy story. They must be willing to work as part of a collaborative, busy environment, and meet deadlines. Written and spoken proficiency in English is a must. A positive, willing and adaptable approach is essential.
What kind of tasks will the successful applicant be required to do in the host newsrooms?
The successful applicant will experience general reporting and work across a number of news rounds and sections of the news organisation.
Am I experienced enough to apply?
You don’t need to have worked full-time in media, or even have completed university studies in journalism. But you will have demonstrated an interest in reporting or storytelling. Experience in interviewing people, researching and pitching story ideas, is essential.
I am not based in the same state as the media organisation I want to do the fellowship with – will there be support for me to get to the placements?
The recipient will receive a stipend of $14,000 to cover living expenses and travel costs for the duration of the fellowship. This stipend is paid fortnightly.
Will there be someone to support me during the placements?
The recipient will receive support and guidance from an experienced journalist who will mentor them throughout their placement.
How do I apply?
Using the online application form. It is free to apply. As well as your contact details, you will be asked to explain how you meet the criteria and submit three examples of your best work.
All applicants are required to submit the following material with their application:
· 1 x essay outlining your personal motivation for pursuing a journalism career. Please include why you want to be a journalist, your story so far, your aspirations, and why a career in the media is important to you.
· 1 x copy of a current CV (including details of a personal and a professional referee).
· 3 x examples of your best work.
In the application form, you will also be asked questions about why you are applying and what you hope to receive from this opportunity. You will be able to save your progress as you go along.
When do applications close?
The application form will close at midnight on Monday, May 10, 2021.
When will I know if my application has been successful?
Shortlisted applicants will be interviewed by the judging panel either in person or via video conference in the week commencing Monday, May 31, 2021. The winner will be notified following the interviews and publicly announced via at the Mid Year Celebration of Journalism on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, in Sydney.
Who will judge the applications?
A panel of senior journalists will assess the applications, and select and interview the shortlisted applicants.
Is there any flexibility on the length of the placement?
No. The placement is for 12 weeks, consecutively. This is to ensure that you have the greatest opportunity for a productive experience.