This scholarship creates a supported pathway for a veteran to grow their leadership capability and continue contributing to South Australia’s defence future
A new partnership between Veterans SA and the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) will open up a leadership development opportunity for a South Australian veteran looking to build a career in the defence industry.
Co‑funded by Veterans SA and the DTC, the scholarship pilot will support one veteran to participate in the DTC’s sector‑leading 2026 Defence Industry Leadership Program (DILP).
The initiative aims to strengthen veteran pathways into civilian leadership roles while helping build South Australia’s future defence workforce.
South Australian veterans who have transitioned from the Australian Defence Force into civilian life are invited to apply for the 2026 DILP course.
Veterans SA Director Bianca Wheeler said the scholarship opportunity demonstrates the value that veterans bring to South Australia’s growing defence sector.
“Veterans have unique skills, experience and leadership qualities that are highly valued in the defence industry,” Ms Wheeler said.
“This scholarship creates a supported pathway for a veteran to grow their leadership capability and continue contributing to South Australia’s defence future.”
Established in 2010, DILP is recognised nationally as a flagship leadership development program for the defence industry. With more than 400 graduates to date, the program has helped reinforce South Australia as a centre of defence capability, innovation and collaboration. Participants who complete the program graduate with a nationally recognised Diploma of Leadership and Management.
Defence Teaming Centre CEO Libby Day said the organisation is proud to partner with Veterans SA to deliver the initiative.
“Championing defence industry workforce development is one of the Defence Teaming Centre’s major priorities, and this scholarship is a meaningful way to support veterans moving into defence industry careers. Their experience, discipline and leadership are invaluable to our sector,” Ms Day said.
“DTC looks forward to working with Veterans SA to help former defence force personnel translate their capabilities into defence industry leadership positions.”
Running over nine months from March, the program combines facilitated workshops, executive-level mentoring and industry engagement activities to strengthen participants’ leadership, strategic thinking and collaboration skills.
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must:
- be an Australian veteran residing in South Australia
- be seeking leadership or advancement opportunities within the defence industry.
Applications close 20 February 2026.
Learn more about the Defence Industry Leadership Program scholarship and apply.
