We encourage and support nurses to seek funding opportunities both within the RCH and externally to undertake research activity. The RCH makes available
Travelling Scholarships, the
Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Nursing Development Scholarship, the
Elizabeth Fearon Scholarship, Post Graduate Nursing Scholarships and CPD funding.
Other scholarships, such as ACN grants and awards are also available to nurses.
If you require and advice or support regarding these opportunities, please contact us at nursing.research@rch.org.au.
Elizabeth Fearon Scholarship
This scholarship is an annual endowment provided by the
RCH League of Former Trainees and Associates (LOFT) to support the integration of research processes into nursing practice at RCH to support improved
outcomes for patients and families.
Elizabeth Fearon was a trainee of the hospital and a Ward Sister in Pelham Street, Carlton. On transfer of the hospital to Parkville, Elizabeth initiated the Day Surgery Unit and continued her role as a teacher and mentor. Elizabeth was greatly respected not only for her kindness, but her wisdom and learning. This scholarship is given in her name as an appropriate memorial to her legacy.
The
sum of up to $8,000 will be awarded to a current nursing employee to support
paediatric research within a higher degree OR for research within a clinical
position or clinical unit to improve patient outcomes.
To be eligible candidates must be currently employed at The Royal Children's Hospital as a Registered or Enrolled Nurse, have developed a project plan reflecting a research question from clinical practice, and have support from all relevant managers for the project (i.e. NUM, Director of Clinical Operations). The recipient of the 2025 scholarship is Jessie Rowe. A list of past recipients can be viewed below and more information regarding the scholarship can be found here: LOFT : Scholarship (rch.org.au).
How to Apply:
Applications open January 12th, 2026.
Applications should be submitted via the application portal here.
- The application should be supported by two professional
referees, one of whom is a line manager/HOD. The referee forms can be downloaded
here, once completed they should be uploaded with the written application via
the above application portal.
- Applicants will be asked to submit a copy of
their CV.
- The application should clearly describe the research
project using the following headings:
- Background and clinical significance
- Key Purpose, objectives and research question.
- Research project plan and timeline
- Impact to RCH (including how the project aligns with the RCH strategic plan)
- Funding Request (Total proposed budget and itemised list with specific details)
Application considerations for the Elizabeth Fearon Scholarship:
- Budget must be detailed and justified, including considerations such as staff ‘on costs’ for buying back clinical time.
- To calculate back pay (nursing base rate + 20% for on costs).
- The Selection Committee may consider the ability of applicants to find other sources of funding.
- If for any reason awarded amount is not required for the requested project, then any remaining funds should be returned to the Scholarship fund. Requests to add additional activities with any remaining funds will not be considered.
Previous Recipients:
2025, Jessie Rowe.There's no Place like home. End of life care outside PICU.
2024, Elisha Porter. Improving Pressure Injury Staging and Documentation.
2023 Dyan Cana. Information
Needs of Parents of Paediatric Patients Before Their Child’s Bone Marrow
Transplantation.
2022, Jess Taranto. Prevention of anal stricture for
children with Anorectal Malformation (ARM): A Systematic Review.
A list of past recipients can be viewed below and more information regarding the scholarship can be found here: LOFT : Scholarship (rch.org.au).
Postgraduate scholarships
Please click here for full information on eligibility and application requirements.
If you have any queries or concerns regarding the claim process for your entitlement, please email the Administrator at AHAN.Scholarship@rch.org.au as early as possible.
CPD Nursing Scholarships
Information on the CPD Nursing scholarships can be found on RCH Nursing Station SharePoint page or via the office of the chief nurse for more information.
Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Nursing Development Scholarship
Information on the DEMNDS scholarship can be found on RCH Nursing Station SharePoint page or via the office of the chief nurse for more information.
Other Scholarships & funding opportunities
Application support
For application advice or support please mail us at nursing.research@rch.org.au.