Leo Mahony Bursary

The Leo Mahony Bursary is awarded annually to a masters (by research) or doctoral scholar studying in the field of national security and defence at an ACT-based university.

The Bursary commemorates the memory and service of founding National Secretary of RUSI-A and long-time USI member and Counsellor, Mr Leo Mahony.

The Bursary comprises a one-off payment of $5000, which is provided by USI of the ACT with the generous support of our partner, Rolls-Royce Australia.  Recipients are also offered Honorary Membership of the Institute for 12 months.  The Bursary and certificate of Honorary Membership are traditionally presented at the Members' Dinner, which is held in September each year.

Who is eligible?

Australian citizens who:

• are studying at an ACT university;
• are enrolled in a Masters (by research) or PhD program that leads to a thesis;
• have an approved research proposal for their program; and
• have not previously won the Leo Mahony Bursary.

What are the selection criteria?

• Relevance. The research must contribute to the body of national security or defence knowledge.
  
• Innovation. Ideally, the research will address a new or under-examined area in the national security and defence sector. Historical papers are welcomed, but must demonstrate explicit relevance to contemporary or future issues.
  
• Academic merit. The research must have an appropriate standard of academic merit.
  

Further information on the Leo Mahony Bursary, including how to apply, can be found here.