Australian Energy Producers Education Scholarship Program

Australian Energy Producers is proud to launch a renewed Education Scholarship Program to support the next generation of energy professionals. This new program replaces the legacy KA Richards and Tony Noon scholarships with a modern, inclusive, and forward-looking framework that reflects the Australian oil and gas industry’s focus on energy security, decarbonisation, and low-emission technologies.

The program supports both practical training and academic study, offering opportunities for:

• TAFE students to build hands-on technical and trade skills, and
• University students to expand their expertise – including trades and technical fields such as engineering, communications, and environmental science and energy policy.

By supporting students at all levels, the program aims to prepare future leaders to play an active role in shaping Australia’s energy future.

1. Australian Energy Producers Scholarship

Value: $20,000 per annum for up to three years.

Includes: Attendance at the Australian Energy Producers Conference & Exhibition in Adelaide, May 2026 (flights, accommodation, and registration included).

2. Australian Energy Producers Conference Award

One recipient will receive support to attend the Australian Energy Producers Conference & Exhibition in Adelaide, May 2026 (flights, accommodation, and registration included).

Application forms, selection criteria, and full terms & conditions are available here:

For inquiries, please contact awards@energyproducers.au

 Australian Energy Producers’ scholarship legacy includes the KA Richards Scholarship and the Tony Noon Memorial Scholarship, which have supported dozens of talented students pursuing careers in Australia’s oil and gas sector.

KA Richards Scholarship

Established in 1989, the KA Richards Scholarship encouraged students in oil and gas-related disciplines to pursue a career in the industry. Named in honour of Dr. Ken Richards, APEA Chair (1982–83) and a highly regarded member of its Council, the scholarship supported postgraduate study – up to three years for a PhD or one year for a Master’s degree – with funding of up to $10,000 per year.

Dr. Richards was renowned for building partnerships with educational institutions to promote the industry as a strong and rewarding career pathway.

Tony Noon Memorial Scholarship

The Tony Noon Memorial Scholarship recognised outstanding students at Honours, Master’s, or PhD level pursuing studies related to upstream petroleum – including exploration, safety, engineering, environmental management, economics, and law.

Established in recognition of Tony Noon, who made exceptional contributions to Australian Energy Producers (then APPEA) from 1994 to 1998, serving the Health, Safety & Production and Exploration Committees, the award provided a one-off grant of up to $3,000.

Following his passing in 1998, the scholarship fund was created to honour his legacy and dedication to the industry.

Further information on previous scholarships is available via the members’ portal, or for non-members, by emailing awards@energyproducers.au .