Our aim is to ensure talented children and young people across Western Australia have the opportunity to develop their abilities and take meaningful steps toward their goals, regardless of their circumstances.
2026 Scholarship applications are now closed. Recipients will be notified from January 2026 onwards.
What is a Variety Heart Scholarship?
Variety Heart Scholarships support children and young people in Western Australia who demonstrate talent and commitment in sport, the arts or education, but face barriers to pursuing their goals due to disability, long-term illness or financial hardship.
Designed for children who are progressing beyond early participation, the Variety Heart Scholarship supports those striving for higher levels of development, performance or achievement.
Scholarships offer funding of up to $4,000, which may be used for:
- Coaching, tuition and specialist training
- Equipment or instruments
- Uniforms, costumes or performance gear
- Competition, program or event fees
Variety believes all Aussie kids deserve the same opportunities, and that all kids should have the chance to follow their dreams and fulfil their potential.
We offer an array of eligible items up to $4,000. Household income limits are applied, and your application will be reviewed to determine the scholarship amount. Review the WA Guidelines and Eligibility Criteria.
Acknowledgement
Variety Heart Scholarships are made possible through the generous support of The Grahame Mapp Family Foundation, in honour of the late Gillian Mapp.
Who can apply for a Variety Heart Scholarship?
To be eligible for a Variety Heart Scholarship, applicants must:
- Live in Western Australia
- Be aged 6–17 at the time of application
- Demonstrate talent or giftedness in sport, the arts or academics
- Live with disability, long-term illness or financial hardship
- Meet household income guidelines
- Provide verification of talent or achievement from a relevant professional
The Variety Heart Scholarships support the continued development of talented or gifted WA kids striving to achieve excellence in fields of the arts, sport, or academics. The scholarship provides practical support in funding tuition, equipment, competition fees and more, allowing kids to follow their dreams. Variety Heart Scholarships are highly competitive. Applications must clearly demonstrate existing talent and progression beyond early participation. Our aim is to assist children who have moved beyond participating for social and community participation and are now in the pursuit of excellence.
What does demonstrated talent mean?
A demonstrated talent is one that has developed over time and can be supported by evidence such as achievements, awards, competition results, or formal recognition. This must be verified by a professional working directly in the applicant’s area of talent.
How can a Variety Heart Scholarship help me?
The child must be talented or gifted in the arts, sport or academics (extracurricular) and live with disability, disadvantage or a long-term health condition.
- The child’s achievements or potential must be verified by a relevant professional.
- The family’s annual household income must fall within the program guidelines.
How are applications assessed?
All applications are first reviewed to ensure eligibility requirements are met. Eligible applications are then assessed on their individual merit.
When reviewing applications, we consider:
- Clear and concise information about the child’s goals and needs
- Complete and legible supporting documentation
- A strong professional support letter outlining the child’s talent, achievements and progression
Incomplete or unclear applications may not be progressed.
Which supporting documents do I need to apply for a Variety Heart Scholarship?
Supporting documents vary depending on individual circumstances. As a guide, applications typically require:
- Proof of household income
- A professional support letter related to the child’s area of talent
- Where applicable, medical documentation confirming disability or long-term illness
Full requirements are outlined in the WA Guidelines and Eligibility Criteria, which should be reviewed before applying.
WA Guidelines and Eligibility Criteria
What if I need help completing an application?
If you need assistance or have any questions, our Kids Support Team is here to help.
Email [email protected] or call 08 9355 3655.
Can I apply again after receiving a Variety Heart Scholarship?
Yes. Previous recipients are welcome to re-apply. The same eligibility process applies and updated supporting documents will be required.
Please note that prior recipients are not guaranteed continued funding.
When will I be notified of the outcome?
All applicants are notified of the outcome once the assessment process is complete. Notification of Variety Heart Scholarship outcomes will be provided from January 2026 onwards, depending on when your application is submitted.
Do Variety Heart Scholarship recipients receive cash payments?
No. Variety WA pays suppliers directly upon receipt of an invoice, or reimburses recipients once valid proof of purchase has been provided.
What can I apply for as part of a Variety Heart Scholarship?
Variety WA can provide funding to support a range of costs, including training, lessons, courses, competition and entry fees, equipment, registration fees, uniforms and, where required, airfare for the child to compete.
What are the opening and closing dates for the 2026/2027 Variety Heart Scholarships?
Applications are currently closed and will reopen September 2026.
Families are encouraged to sign up to our newsletter to stay informed.
Will Variety WA hold a Scholarship Awards event?
Yes. Each year, Variety WA hosts a Scholarship Awards event to celebrate recipients and their achievements. Successful applicants and their families will be invited to attend once event details are confirmed.
The event will also feature performances from the Variety Choir and brings together families, supporters and sponsors who help make the program possible.
Variety Heart Scholarships Awards 2024: