All you need to know

Heart Scholarships

We believe every child in Victoria deserves the chance to reach their full potential.

Applications open Monday, 27 July and close Friday, 16 October 2026.

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The Variety Heart Scholarship Program is proudly supported by the Grahame Mapp Family Foundation.

We are deeply grateful for their long-standing commitment and unwavering belief in children and young people, which continues to open doors and change lives.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Grahame Mapp Family Foundation Variety Heart Scholarship, applicants must be residents of Victoria and fall within the age range of 8 to 17 years old. Each applicant is eligible to hold only one scholarship within a 12-month period. Additionally, applicants are required to showcase a demonstrated talent that has been cultivated and refined over time, which should be attested by a professional in the respective field of talent.

Funding categories

Scholarship applications can be made under two specific funding categories: financial hardship or disability/chronic illness. We encourage young individuals with exceptional abilities and talents to seize this opportunity and apply for the scholarship that aligns with their unique aspirations and circumstances. We are dedicated to recognising and supporting the potential of these promising applicants and assisting them in achieving their dreams.

Documents Required To Apply

Don’t worry, most families already have many of these documents available.

Professional Recommendation Letter

• Required for all applications
• Must be from a professional connected to the student’s talent
• Must be on letterhead, signed and dated, no older than three months
• Should explain the student’s talent, achievements and how the scholarship will support their development

Medical Recommendation Letter

• Only required for disability or chronic illness applications
• Must be from the student’s GP, paediatrician or medical specialist
• Must be on letterhead, signed and dated no longer than three months ago
• Must confirm the child’s diagnosis or disability

Proof of household income

• Required for each parent or carer financially responsible for the student
• Most recent payslip, if employed
• Most recent tax return (if self-employed)
• Most recent Centrelink Income Statement, if receiving Centrelink

Carer Payment, JobSeeker Payment and annual PAYG Centrelink Statements are not accepted.

Additional supporting information

Extra details to support your application.

• Information about the student’s needs
• Details of how the support will be used
• Previous scholarships or Variety grants, if relevant.
• Evidence of achievements, awards, results, showcases or exhibitions
• Any other relevant supporting documentation

How the Application Process Works

Our team reviews your application carefully and confidentially.
Outcome after the assessment process. Scholarships must be used within the approved calendar year.

Application

Complete the online form and provide supporting documents, including school and (if required) health professional recommendations.

• Applications can be submitted by a parent, carer or support person
• All required documents must be included
• Incomplete applications may be declined

Assessment

Our team reviews your application to ensure it meets the guidelines. Eligible applications are assessed by our Kids Support Committee.

• Reviewed for eligibility and completeness
• Shortlisted applications are assessed by the Kids Support Committee
• Recommendations are reviewed by the Variety Board

Outcome

You’ll receive an outcome via email once the process is complete.

• If approved, Variety pays suppliers directly. Variety will make a direct payment to suppliers upon receipt of the invoice. Invoice payments can take up to two (2) weeks.
• Funding may be full or partial
• Funds must be used within the approved year starting from the date the scholarship was approved
• Any unspent allocated funds will be rescinded
• If unsuccessful applications may apply for the next round
• Successful applications will be encouraged to provide an update on child within two months of recieving the scholarship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Children aged 8–17 years who live in Victoria and are enrolled in school or an approved education program may be eligible. Priority is given to families experiencing financial hardship and children living with disability or chronic illness.

Art scholarships can help with costs like music/art/dance lessons, instruments, art supplies, competition fees and costs, and sports scholarships can help with sports equipment, competition fees and travel, training and more.

No. Variety pays suppliers directly for approved items. Families do not receive funds directly.

Yes. You’ll need to provide a recommendation from your child’s school, and in some cases a health professional letter. Proof of household income is also required.

Applications are reviewed after the round closes. Timing may vary depending on demand, and you will be notified once a decision has been made.

Only one scholarship can be awarded per child within a 12-month period. Previous recipients may apply again in future rounds.

You’ll receive an outcome email with next steps. Variety will arrange payment directly with the supplier for approved items.

No. You do not need to be on Centrelink or the NDIS to apply, but you will need to demonstrate financial need.

If unsuccessful, you may be able to apply again in the next funding round the following year.

Apply for a Heart Scholarship

We’re Here to Help

Our team can guide you through the process.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or need help completing the form, please contact Variety Victoria.
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