A gift from the heart to nurture Australian leadership 

A legacy gift from much-loved former Deputy Prime Minister, the late Honourable Tim Fischer AC, will support talented John Monash Scholars to collaborate and exchange in their fields of study. 

In 2019, the General Sir John Monash Foundation was honoured to receive a bequest of $100,000 from the Estate of the late Tim Fischer AC.  Tim Fischer was a close friend and lifelong supporter of the Foundation, having played an integral role in the founding of the John Monash Scholarships and joining the Board of Directors in 2001.   

The funds from his generous bequest are used to support the scholar collaboration fund. Launched in October 2020, the new Collaborative Grants program sits within the John Monash Foundation Leadership Academy and allows John Monash Scholars to connect with each other to develop joint projects which might not otherwise receive funding.

View the work of our recent Collaborative Grants recipients here. 

We are incredibly grateful for Tim Fischer’s generosity and believe our Collaborative Grants program will be a fitting tribute to honour his legacy for many years to come. This is an exciting initiative which will foster community and collaboration amongst John Monash Scholars to nurture the development of Australian leadership across all areas of society. 

“It is very special to us as a family to continue the connection that Tim had with the General Sir John Monash Foundation and particularly with the Scholarship alumni.  Tim was passionate about the need for a truly Australian leadership program that highlighted innovation, excellence and education.  Each time he attended a Foundation event, he was inspired by the people he met and the conversations he had with applicants, recipients and the dedicated team that made it all happen.  Hence his desire to leave a legacy that supports this vital work for the future.” 

Judy, Harrison and Dominic Fischer  

August 2020