Western Chances
- Project: Western Chances Support
- Amount: $150,000 over one year
- Year(s) Funded: 2025
Supporting young people in Melbourne’s western suburbs and Geelong to fulfil their potential through education.
Western Chances provides young people aged 12 – 25 years in Melbourne’s west and Geelong, the opportunity to fulfil their potential and overcome barriers to succeeding in education.
The organisation partners with government secondary schools to identify talented students and, importantly, supports them as they continue through their tertiary studies. Working with donors, grant partners, local organisations, and supporters, they provide resources and networks to help them thrive at every stage of their
educational journey.
The organisation is expending its impact in Geelong while strengthening its model of continuous support for all scholarship recipients, from high school through to tertiary education and employment. Helen Macpherson Smith has a long-standing partnership with Western Chances. By addressing systemic inequalities in Melbourne’s west and Geelong, the organisation contributes to improving educational outcomes, increasing school retention, and creating stronger transitions to further education and employment.
Western Chances is building a resilient, inclusive education ecosystem that champions opportunity, equity, and lasting change.
When I founded Western Chances, it was with the belief that a small, timely intervention could change the course of a young person’s life. Years later, I have seen that belief affirmed many times over. Scholarships are just the beginning. What follows is increased confidence, stronger engagement in learning, and new pathways to education and meaningful work. Families feel supported. Schools are better equipped. Communities are enriched.
I remain inspired by the resilience and ambition of the young people we support, and proud of the role Western Chances plays in helping them realise their full potential.
Terry Bracks AM, Chair
”For further information about Western Chances please visit westernchanges.org.au