The Bridget Whelan Scholarship is an annual award of $10,000 for women advisers in the Australian Labor Party. It is named in honour of the talented Bridget Whelan who worked in NSW and Federal Government for the Labor Party from 2000 to 2010. Bridget worked as a Senior Adviser for Minister John Della Bosca and Premier Morris Iemma, and as a Chief of Staff for Attorney-General John Hatzistergos and Minister Mark Arbib. During her time in Government, Bridget ran the NSW Legislative program and was responsible for a raft of important legislation. Bridget also worked hard to support, guide and mentor other women Advisers.

The purpose of the scholarship is to assist women advisers with several years experience to extend and develop their skills and capacity and contribute further to the party – whether in policy, communications or leadership roles. We are seeking passionate and committed women who see a future for themselves as a political adviser, and want the opportunity to broaden their knowledge and horizons at either a national or international level.