The Climbers Association of Western Australia (CAWA) is proud to continue the CAWA Scholarship Program for 2026/2027. It supports WA climbers who are ready to take the next step in their climbing journey - whether that means building outdoor skills, chasing a big project, entering competitions, or growing in a new discipline.
We're not simply looking for the strongest climbers. We're looking for purpose, progression and a meaningful goal. If the scholarship can help move your climbing forward in a clear and practical way, we want to hear from you.
What the scholarship supports
The scholarship helps climbers achieve clearly defined goals over the next 12 months. It can support climbing-related gear, services, training and activities that directly contribute to your development.
Gear and equipment
Climbing gear and equipment that directly supports your goals.
Courses and training
Courses and training such as trad, rescue, alpine or technical development.
Travel
Travel directly related to your climbing objectives.
Competitions
Competition entries or structured development programs.
Other expenses
Other climbing-related expenses that support your stated goals.
The focus is simple
Helping you take a meaningful next step in climbing.
Greg Carter exploring Peak Charles - photo: Jiri Stastny
Scholarship categories
Experienced Scholarship
$1,500
For climbers with 4 or more years of outdoor climbing experience. Best suited to bigger objectives, advanced skill development or significant climbing goals.
Novice Scholarship
$1,500
For climbers with less than 4 years of outdoor climbing experience, including indoor climbers looking to move outdoors. Ideal if you have strong motivation, clear goals and a desire to grow.
Who can apply
• Western Australian residents
• Climbers aged 12 years and over
• Boulderers, sport climbers, trad climbers, alpinists and competition climbers
• CAWA members and non-members
Please note - non-members can apply, but you'll need to join CAWA if you're awarded the scholarship.
We encourage applications from climbers with inspirational, ambitious or unique goals. Outdoor climbing objectives are strongly encouraged, though indoor goals will also be considered where the application shows clear direction, purpose and benefit.
Application process
1. Complete the online application form
2. Submit your application by Sunday 31 May 2026 at 11.59pm AWST
3. If shortlisted, attend a follow-up interview with CAWA representatives
You can edit your submission up until the closing deadline.
What you will be asked
The application form asks about your climbing background, your goals, and how the scholarship would help you. You'll also need a reference from someone aged 18 or over who knows your character and climbing journey.
• Your current climbing disciplines and experience level
• Further details on your climbing background and progression
• Your climbing goals over the next 12 months
• Your long-term climbing goals
• How receiving the scholarship will help you achieve those goals
• A reference who can support your application
What makes a strong application
• A sense of how your journey may positively influence the WA climbing community
• A clear and specific goal, rather than a vague desire to improve
• A realistic plan for how the scholarship funds would be used
• A strong personal reason why the goal matters to you
• Evidence of progression, commitment or consistent effort
How applications will be assessed
The judging panel reviews applications using a structured process designed to be fair, consistent and clear.
Assessment criteria
Judging process for 2026/2027
Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to an interview as the final stage.
Key dates
Applications open
Now
Applications close
Sunday 31 May 2026, 11.59pm AWST
Shortlisting and interviews
Early June 2026
Winners announced
Late June 2026
Cedric Puig on Double Scorpion (23) at Peak Charles - photo: Jiri Stastny
Expectations of scholarship recipients
Successful applicants will be asked to give back to the community in a few simple ways.
Represent CAWA
You'll receive CAWA-branded clothing - wear it at gyms, events and climbing trips.
Share your journey
You may be featured in CAWA social media or community updates.
Present at the AGM
Give a short presentation at the CAWA Annual General Meeting on what you achieved with the scholarship.
These expectations are there to celebrate your progress and help inspire other climbers in Western Australia.
Why CAWA offers a climbing scholarship
CAWA exists to support climbing in Western Australia through advocacy, community development, access, education and participation. The scholarship program is one of the ways we invest directly in climbers and help strengthen the wider climbing community.
We want to support people who are motivated to grow, try something bigger and contribute to the future of climbing in WA.
Questions about the scholarship?
Ready to apply?
If you have a climbing goal that matters to you, we encourage you to apply. Whether it's your first outdoor objective, a major personal project or the next step in your development, this scholarship could help make it happen.