UWS announces the Gough Whitlam PhD scholarship

Gough Whitlam

The University of Western Sydney has established the EG Whitlam PhD Scholarship, in tribute to former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam and to continue the Whitlam legacy of bold public policy and ambitious social reform that transformed a nation and the lives of its citizens.

The scholarship announcement was made last night by UWS Vice-Chancellor Professor Barney Glover at a packed St Kilda Town Hall as part of the Commemorative Gough Whitlam Oration, delivered by long-time Whitlam friend and confidant Graham Freudenberg.

The scholarship, worth $30,000 a year, comes under the auspices of the University's Whitlam Institute, and is expected to have its first recipient appointed by the end of the year.

Graham Freudenberg and Professor Barney Glover at the Commemorative Gough Whitlam Oration

Professor Glover said UWS is proud to be the home of the Whitlam Institute, and the scholarship is a part of the University's ongoing support and commitment to the Institute's work.

"Gough and Margaret were deeply committed to the Whitlam Institute – they were its greatest advocates and most faithful supporters. The Commemorative Oration by Gough's great friend Graham Freudenberg is itself a mark of the deep affection we hold for Gough and our indebtedness to him," he said.

"I could think of no better occasion to announce the University's E G Whitlam PhD Scholarship. It will promote valuable research in public policy, guided by the values that oriented Gough Whitlam's social democratic vision for Australia – a vision that is equally as relevant today."

Established in 2000, the Whitlam Institute is a dynamic public policy institute that pursues the causes Mr Whitlam championed. It is a lasting legacy to Mr Whitlam's many contributions to Australian public life.

It is the custodian of the Whitlam legacy through the Whitlam Prime Ministerial Library, and also engages with the community through an extensive civics education and outreach program. 

Ends

Photos: Sally Tsoutas

5 March 2015

Media contact: Amanda Whibley, Manager Media and Public Relations