JB Fairfax Award fuels the next generation of rural journalists
Media and Communications students are invited to apply for a career-defining opportunity to gain real-world experience and mentorship in rural and regional journalism, with applications now open for the RAS Foundation’s 2026 JB Fairfax Award for Rural & Regional Journalism and Communications.
Celebrating its 17th year, this prestigious national award is designed to encourage and support a journalism or communications student, currently studying at university, who is passionate about telling the stories of rural and regional Australia and committed to making a meaningful impact in the sector upon graduation.
The Award provides a $12,500 scholarship to the successful applicant along with three immersive internships. These include placements with two leading media organisations – Australian Community Media’s The Land newspaper, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s Landline program – as well as a chance to explore event Public Relations with the Sydney Royal Easter Show, working from the media centre of Australia’s largest agricultural event.
RAS Foundation Manager Cecilia Logan said the JBF Fairfax Award offers an incredible launchpad for aspiring journalists, helping them build essential skills, experiences, and industry connections for a future in media.
“The JB Fairfax Award is a truly special opportunity – it’s the only national scholarship dedicated to rural and regional journalism, and it offers young communicators a chance to learn directly from leaders in the field”, Ms Logan said.
“Many past recipients have embraced the experience wholeheartedly, launching successful careers in the media industry and playing a vital role in elevating the voices of rural Australia.
“The RAS Foundation is honoured to help nurture the next generation of storytellers who are passionate about rural and regional issues. If you're under 30 and driven to make a difference, we strongly encourage you to apply”.
2025 JB Fairfax recipient, Toby McGee, has already completed two of his internships and has been full of praise for the possibilities this award has opened for him.
“I’ve had the most incredible hands-on experiences and got to work alongside so many talented and passionate journalists, and I’m excited to take what I’ve learned into my final internship”, McGee said.
“Receiving the JB Fairfax Award means so much more than just having financial pressures eased; it’s a foot in the door of such a competitive industry, an encouragement to be ambitious and driven, and affirmation that my interest in rural and regional journalism can be a fulfilling career”.
Recent Award recipients have highlighted the program’s potential impact on future careers by securing prominent roles with leading industry publications upon graduating, such as the Sydney Morning Herald, ABC Rural and R.M.Williams Outback Magazine.
To be eligible for the JB Fairfax Award, applicants must be:
Australian citizens or permanent residents
Aged 30 and under
Currently enrolled in a relevant undergraduate or postgraduate course at an approved Australian education provider
Able to demonstrate an active interest in rural and regional affairs and in pursuing a career in journalism/communications upon graduation.
To apply, applicants are required to complete an online application form, provide a resume and academic transcript, and submit a short piece of original work – written, audio, or video – on a topic of choice. This may include content or coursework that has previously been published or broadcast.
Applications are now open and will close on Monday, 18 August, with the successful recipient announced in November 2025.
