$12,500 scholarship available for aspiring rural journalists and communicators

Students passionate about pursuing a career in media and communications, with a focus on rural and regional Australia, are being encouraged to apply for a $12,500 scholarship offering hands-on experience with three leading media organisations.

The JB Fairfax Award for Rural & Regional Journalism and Communications was established 18 years ago to support students interested in rural and regional affairs by providing access to the industry – and help strengthen journalism and communications across regional communities.

The successful recipient will not only receive financial support for their studies but will also gain three invaluable internship opportunities with ABC’s Landline in Brisbane, Australian Community Media’s rural publication The Land, and the media team at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

RAS Foundation Manager, Cecilia Logan said the award provides a valuable foot in the door for aspiring rural communicators.

“The JB Fairfax Award for Regional & Rural Journalism and Communications is a national award designed for students who want to make a difference by telling stories that often go unheard,” Logan said.

“Regional and Rural communities make up about 30% of Australia’s population, and their stories and voices are important. By providing this unique scholarship and access to industry leaders, we aim to support the next generation of media and communications professionals.”

2026 recipient, Tasmania’s Tayla Gofton said the award offered access to an industry that can often feel out of reach.

“Receiving the JB Fairfax Award has been a defining moment in my journalism career, fueling my passion for regional communications and storytelling. Through my internship with the RAS media team at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, I gained invaluable experience working with an incredible network of talented journalists across a diverse range of media - an opportunity that has truly shaped my path,” shared Gofton.

"I would strongly encourage anyone with an interest in regional affairs and aspirations in journalism or communications to apply. Coming from a rural area with little contacts in the industry, this award has provided me with incredible experiences that I never would have had access to otherwise. The networking opportunities, learning experiences, and support systems have been truly invaluable in shaping my future as a journalist and I can't wait to see where my new skills take me."

The 2027 JB Fairfax Award for Rural & Regional Journalism and Communications is now open and will close Sunday 16 August 2026. To learn more please visit www.rasf.org.au

Image: L-R RAS Councillor Michael Millner, 2026 JB Fairfax Award receipient, Tayla Gofton, and RAS President, John Bennett OAM. Photo credit: Monde Photo.

If you'd like imagery or quotes from previous recipients that may be locally relevant, don't hesitate to reach out.

For further information, please contact:

Nicola Dalby

E: ndalby@rasnsw.com.au M: 0434 579 906 P: 02 9704 1041