Australia Awards South and West Asia

Applications for Australia Awards Scholarships for study commencing in 2027 are now open and close on 1 April 2026.

In early 2026 Sajal Tariq from Pakistan completed a Master of International Tax at Melbourne Law School, one of the professional graduate schools of the University of Melbourne in Victoria, with the support of an Australia Awards Scholarship. In the coming weeks she will return home to recommence her work in the Civil Service of Pakistan. 

In the following video, Sajal discusses her experiences as an Australia Awards scholar in Australia.

“International tax is a highly specialised field of taxation and especially very important in today’s globalised world where digital economies and multinational corporate structures challenge traditional taxation frameworks,” Sajal says.

“My Australia Awards experience will enable me [to] contribute towards tax reform back in my country, enabling me [to] reduce revenue leakage and build a fairer tax system.”

Sajal also highlights that her study is an opportunity to gain academic skills and knowledge. With this learning, she says, “I can provide training and capacity-building programs for my fellow civil servants in Pakistan.” It’s clear that she’s thought deeply about the long-term benefits of the Scholarship for her and for her country.

Sajal (left) pictured with fellow Pakistani scholar Wirdah Kaif, an Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia Scholar Ambassador in Victoria.

“Studying in Australia has been an incredibly enriching experience,” Sajal continues. “The Melbourne Law School offers a vibrant academic ecosystem providing me access to conferences, global leaders in taxation, as well as guest lectures and mentorship that really expand my perspective.” She also mentions that “the university focuses on the students’ overall wellbeing”, pointing to examples such as the professional psychological assistance and financial support available, as well as a full calendar of engagement activities throughout the semester.

Another element of studying in Australia that has stood out to Sajal has been the learning environment. “The teaching approach here is very interactive,” she says. “You are encouraged to debate, reflect and draw on real-world case studies. What really stands out is that your opinion and your perspective is really valued in discussions, even if it comes from a different context, like mine.” In addition, she appreciates the feedback mechanism after every exam or assignment, which, she says, “allows you to improve and consistently grow throughout your studies”.

Sajal (left) participating in an Indigenous art workshop under the guidance of a First Nations artist during the 2025 Australia Awards – South Asia and Mongolia Scholars Symposium in Melbourne.

Sajal has also benefitted from professional development opportunities provided by Australia Awards, including the Australia Awards – South Asia & Mongolia Scholars Symposium in Melbourne. Through a panel discussion on changemaking, a targeted networking workshop, and a cultural session with an Indigenous Australian artist, she gained both practical skills and personal insights.

“The Scholar Symposium was an enriching experience, especially the networking techniques we learnt, which showed me how to approach conversations with confidence and intention,” Sajal says. “Engaging with the Indigenous Aboriginal artist also encouraged me to reflect more deeply on my sense of calm and inner balance.”

There have been other perks to her decision to pursue further study in Australia. “One of the unexpected joys has been discovering [the] university’s world-class sports facilities,” Sajal says. “Learning to swim has been my long-time personal goal—and thanks to [the] university’s free swimming classes and pool access, I’ve finally been able to pursue it. Going for a swim after a long hectic day at tax law is really a good stress reliever for me.”

Sajal has also had a positive experience of Australia off campus. “The environment is very warm, it’s really welcoming. I feel like I am welcomed everywhere since there’s a cultural mix, there’s diversity, and Australia really values diversity and inclusivity,” she says. “My life in Australia, it’s really fulfilling.” She also attributes part of her happiness to the fact that her family was able to accompany her—one of many ways in which Australia Awards has supported her.

“The support I received from Australia Awards is exceptional. The orientation sessions, pre-departure briefing and [Introductory Academic Program] not only helped me integrate into the academic environment,” she says, “but also enabled me to build a peer network that continues to be a source of strength and support.”

Sajal (second from left) interacting with Wirdah (far right) and Bangladeshi scholars Shah Rahnuma Binte Jalal Sarna (left) and Tanushri Chanda Pinky (second from right).

But what stands out most for Sajal is a factor that relates not to her own education, but that of her children. “The most meaningful aspect of support that I have received from Australia Awards is that my children’s school fee is fully funded by Australia Awards, since they go to an Australian public school,” she says. “This gives me a lot of peace of mind, and I feel that I’m supported not only as a student, but also as a parent.”

Given such a strong testimonial, many others may be inspired by Sajal’s journey to apply for their own Australia Awards Scholarship. To them, she says that the Scholarship is “not [just] an opportunity to study abroad—it’s a life changing platform that empowers you, your family and your community”.

Sajal (right) with Professor Miranda Stewart (left), Director of the Tax Group at Melbourne Law School, photographed during the Justice and the Tax Base in the 21st Century conference.

Sajal also has some sage advice for prospective applicants. “If you are passionate about contributing to your country’s development, believe in that purpose and let it guide you through the process,” she says. “This Scholarship really allows you to grow. The opportunities, growth and connections it brings are unlike anything else … I would recommend Australia Awards for anyone who would like to be a changemaker and a leader in their field.”