Applications close on April 12th at 11:59pm and positions are released on Tuesday 14th at 9am.
The Liberty & Society Student Fellowship is a selective, fully subsidised program designed for students and young professionals across Australia and New Zealand who are interested in free markets, individual liberty, and the open exchange of ideas.
Running from April to December, the Fellowship provides structured exposure to key ideas in economics, public policy, and political philosophy, delivered by leading academics, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and business leaders.
No prior background is required — only intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to engage with ideas.
Program Structure
The Fellowship runs over 10 months, combining regular seminars with structured discussion and applied learning.
- Duration: April 16 – December 17
- Sessions: 13 sessions, held every third Thursday
- Time: 6:00–8:00pm (Sydney time)
- Format: Online (Zoom)
Each session includes:
- A seminar
- Q&A with the speaker
- A group-based problem-solving discussion
Topics Covered
Fellows engage with a broad set of issues central to contemporary policy and public debate, including:
- Energy markets
- Technology and artificial intelligence
- Regulation and competition
- Free speech and civil liberties
- Law and liberty
- Innovation and entrepreneurship
- Public choice theory
Sessions are designed to provide both conceptual foundations and practical insights.
Assessment & Engagement
Participants are required to:
- Submit a short (200–300 word) written reflection following each session
- Complete three short viva voce-style reviews during the program
These reviews involve a 10-minute discussion of a selected reflection and are designed to encourage depth of thought and maintain intellectual integrity.
Completion Requirements
To graduate from the Fellowship, participants must:
- Attend at least 10 of 13 sessions
- Complete the required reflections and viva voce reviews
Successful participants receive a certificate of completion.
Who Can Apply?
The Fellowship is open to students and young professionals across Australia and New Zealand. No prior background in classical liberalism is required — only intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to engage with ideas.
Alumni & Opportunities
Fellows gain entry into the Liberty & Society Alumni Network, providing ongoing access to:
- Professional and intellectual networks
- Internship opportunities
- Subsidised attendance at major events and conferences
- Priority access to other Liberty & Society programs
Application Process
Applicants are required to submit:
- A curriculum vitae (CV)
- Responses to one short question (300 words)
The Fellowship operates as a selective cohort, admitting a limited number of applicants based on merit, motivation, and demonstrated interest in ideas.
Cost
The Fellowship is fully subsidised, with participation funded by CIS donors.