Through this opportunity, I’m now able to contribute to meaningful, innovative work here in South Australia.
The Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program continues to support education and career transitions for South Australia’s veteran community.
Australian Defence Force (ADF) veterans and the partners of current or former-serving members can once again apply for financial support through the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program, helping them pursue new career goals and further education.
Applications are now open for the 2026 round, offering up to $5,000 per applicant to help cover study and training costs.
Since launching in 2024, the program has supported more than 30 members of South Australia’s veteran community with scholarships, easing financial pressures and helping recipients gain qualifications across emerging and in-demand industries.
Among those who have benefitted are Tim, a former Royal Australian Navy Combat Systems Operator and Elizabeth, a former Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Navigation Officer. Both used their scholarships to strengthen their skills and explore new directions in defence industry.
Building a new career in cybersecurity
After serving 15 years full-time in the Royal Australian Navy, Tim Johnson was ready for a change.
“I joined the Navy straight out of high school in Adelaide and served on Anzac Class Frigates during multiple overseas deployments to the Middle East and Southeast Asia,” Tim said.
“When I started a family, I wanted to spend more time at home while still contributing to the defence sector, so I began exploring study options that aligned with my skills.”
Tim learned about the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program through the Port Adelaide Football Club ADF Veterans Program and decided to apply.
“It sounded like an excellent opportunity and I was already looking into tertiary studies,” he said.
With the support of the scholarship, Tim is currently pursuing a Diploma of Information Technology (Cybersecurity) – a qualification that has already proven valuable in his role at Silentium Defence.
“The knowledge and skills I’ve gained through my studies have directly supported my work. I’ve been able to contribute to policy development and help promote a strong cybersecurity culture in my workplace,” he said.
Looking ahead, Tim plans to continue developing his cybersecurity expertise and encourages other veterans to take advantage of this scholarship and employment opportunities in the defence sector.
“Scholarships like this make a real difference as they open doors for veterans to build new careers while staying connected to the defence community.”
Turning data and defence experience into a new direction
Elizabeth’s connection to defence began while studying at the University of Adelaide, where she served part-time in the Army Reserve before joining the RAAF full-time.
As both a veteran and the partner of a current-serving ADF member, she understands first-hand the challenges of managing career transitions while supporting defence family life.
After transitioning out, Elizabeth spent over two decades in analytical roles across the mining and corporate sectors. However, her passion for defence never waned, so she chose to return to study, enhancing her technical skills and re-engaging with the defence industry.
Through the scholarship, she completed a Master of Applied Data Science with Monash University in 2025.
“It’s been a great assistance, allowing me to concentrate on learning rather than income generation,” Elizabeth said.
Elizabeth’s studies opened new opportunities, including her current role with DEWC Services, which came about after the company discovered her through the South Australian Veterans Employer Network (SAVEN).
“We’re settled in Adelaide long term and it’s been great to reconnect with the defence sector again, where my career began,” she said.
“Through this opportunity, I’m now able to contribute to meaningful, innovative work here in South Australia.”
Elizabeth said the scholarship makes reskilling more achievable for veterans and their partners.
“It’s an important initiative, especially for families navigating relocations, deployments and career interruptions.”
Supporting transitions and future ambitions
The Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program supports study or training during the 2026 calendar year.
Funding can be used for tuition fees, textbooks, learning resources and course-related equipment across university, TAFE or registered training organisation programs.
Both Tim and Elizabeth agree the scholarship has provided more than just financial relief. It has empowered them to redefine their careers while continuing to contribute to the defence community.
“It’s about more than study,” Tim said. “It’s about growth, connection and the chance to keep contributing in new ways.”
Applications are now open and close on 9 February 2026.
Learn more and apply for the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program.
