Our History
The Foundation provides a national focus for the aim of The Order of Australia Association to promote – “To celebrate and promote outstanding Australian Citizenship”.
The Foundation was formed on 29 April 1999 pursuant to a Deed of Trust settled by five Founders, being former Presidents of the Association, namely Rt Hon Sir Zelman Cowen PC AK GCMG GCVO KStJ, Hon Sir Charles Court AK KCMG OBE, Sir Eric Neal AC CVO, Sir James Gobbo AC CVO; and General Sir Phillip Bennett AC KBE DSO KStJ.
The Foundation provides a national focus for the aim of The Order of Australia Association “To celebrate and promote outstanding Australian Citizenship”.
Since its inception, the Foundation has provided 55 Scholarships covering all States and Territories. Each scholarship awardee receives a Scholarship of $40,000 for the duration of their studies to cover tuition fees, living allowance, student fees, computer needs and other educational expenses. In addition, the awardee is provided with a personal mentoring relationship with a recipient of the Order of Australia who is eminent in the chosen field of study of the awardee. The mentor provides advice to the awardee during the course of study and assists in the transition from student to professional life.