PGA Institute: Applications Open for Careers in Golf Scholarship

Applications are now open for the PGA Institute Careers in Golf Scholarship, providing two opportunities for aspiring and current golf industry professionals to build the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in the sport.

Launched in 2025 in collaboration with Golf Australia, the Careers in Golf Scholarship is designed to help grow and develop talent within the Australian golf industry by supporting recent Year 12 graduates and individuals living or working in regional areas looking to develop their careers in golf.

The initiative brings together Golf Australia, the sport’s national governing body, and the PGA Institute, Australia’s only golf-specific Registered Training Organisation, to provide clear pathways into the golf workforce.

PGA Institute Senior Manager Suzanne Burns said the scholarships provide an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to take their first or next step in the golf industry.

“The golf industry needs talented people at every level, and these scholarships are designed to help ensure people have access to the education and opportunities they need, regardless of where they live or where they are in their career,” Burns said.

“Whether it’s a recent Year 12 graduate exploring a career in golf or someone already working at a regional club looking to upskill, we want to help create clearer pathways into the industry and support their long-term development.”

Two scholarships are available as part of the 2026 Careers in Golf Scholarship program.

The on-campus scholarship at the PGA Learning Hub at Sandhurst Golf Club is available to recent Year 12 graduates living in metropolitan Melbourne who are looking to take their first step towards a career in the golf industry.

The off-campus scholarship provides an online study opportunity for individuals living or working in regional areas, including those already employed at golf clubs or venues who are looking to upskill and expand their knowledge.

Both scholarships include a bursary to assist with tuition fees and provide successful applicants with the opportunity to undertake the Diploma of Golf Business and Management through the PGA Institute.

Current PGA Institute scholarship recipient Tayla Potter is undertaking the Diploma of Golf Business and Management online while working at Gladstone Golf Club in Far North Queensland.

“I always knew I wanted golf to be part of my future, but I didn’t really know what that looked like,” Potter said.

“Then when I saw what the PGA Institute offers online, I looked into it more and knew that was a path I wanted to take.”

Fellow scholarship recipient Georgia Sottile, who works at Lonsdale Links on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, is using the Diploma of Golf Business and Management as a stepping stone towards her goal of becoming a PGA Professional.

“I thought it would be a good opportunity to get my foot in the door,” Sottile said.

“All the modules and stuff I’ve been doing are really relevant to my everyday learning through teaching and working in the pro shop and running a club.

“Definitely coaching is where I see myself, specifically women’s coaching.”

Applicants must be aged 18 or over, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, not currently be receiving PGA of Australia scholarships or funding, and live or work in a qualifying region.

With applications now open, aspiring golf industry professionals are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to invest in their future and develop the skills needed to build a rewarding career in golf.

Expressions of interest close on 30 September. Register your interest now at golf.com.au/pga-institute-scholarships.