Apply for the 2026 Queensland Memory Awards

Apply for a fellowship

Have you ever wanted to explore historic material in State Library's collections and uncover new aspects of Queensland's history? As a research fellow, you’ll have a unique opportunity to access rare archives, make new discoveries, and share your findings with the public. With a stipend, dedicated workspace and support, it’s your chance to contribute to a deeper understanding of Queensland’s past and make a lasting impact on how we view history.

In 2026, State Library will offer fellowships supporting research into Queensland history, First Nations history, business history, and the EKKA — the state’s largest annual event. Explore the full suite of fellowships available on the Queensland Memory Awards webpages.

Nominate an individual or organisation for a John Oxley Library Award

Know someone or an organisation doing exceptional work to documenting, sharing and preserving Queensland’s history? Nominate them for a John Oxley Library Award. The John Oxley Library Community History Award comes with a $5,000 prize.

Key Dates

• Applications open: 9am, Thursday 26 June 2025

• Online Fellowships Information session: 6pm, Tuesday 15 July 2025. Book now.

• Applications close: Midnight, Friday 1 August 2025

• Judging: August - September 2025

• Outcomes: Applicants will be informed of the outcomes mid September 2025

Awards on offer in 2026

• John Oxley Library Fellowship – $25,000 for Queensland history research projects

• Monica Clare Research Fellowship – $20,000 for First Nations history research projects

• Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) Fellowship – $20,000 for Ekka history research projects

• Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame Fellowship – $15,000 for Queensland business and economic history research projects

• John Oxley Library Award – for an individual champion of Queensland history

• John Oxley Library Community History Award – $5,000 for a group or organisation championing Queensland history

Before You Apply Checklist (links below)

1. Read the Guidelines
   Review the relevant Fellowship or Award Guidelines. Important eligibility and selection criteria information listed in this document.

2. Check the FAQs
   Get answers to common questions before you begin.

3. Attend the Online Information session
   Join our live online information session 6pm, 15 July 2025 to strengthen your application and ask questions.

4. Draft Your Application or Nomination
   Use SmartyGrants to start your draft online — save and return anytime.

5. Submit Before the Deadline!
    Applications close midnight, Friday 1 August 2025.