$15,000 scholarship program expands after successful debut year supporting regional SA students
Adelaide accounting and advisory firm William Buck is now accepting expressions of interest for the second year of its Regional Scholarship program, following the successful launch that saw Loxton student Tyler Hobby become the inaugural recipient in 2024.
The scholarship, which provides $15,000 over three years plus mentorship and work experience opportunities, was created to address the unique challenges faced by regional students pursuing
commerce-related tertiary education.
Adrian Chugg, Managing Partner, William Buck South Australia said this scholarship would further strengthen the firm’s ties with regional South Australia.
“The scholarship reflects William Buck’s deep regional roots, with one-third of the Adelaide office’s partners originating from regional South Australia. Regional communities have been fundamental to our growth and success. This scholarship is one tangible way we can invest back into these communities and help talented young people build careers in finance and accounting,” said Mr Chugg.
“Tyler’s journey this year has validated everything we hoped to achieve with this program. Watching him transition into his university studies, while starting to build meaningful connections with our team,
demonstrates the real impact this scholarship can have.” The comprehensive support package extends well beyond financial assistance. Recipients receive dedicated mentorship from William Buck professionals who understand the regional experience firsthand, having made similar transitions themselves. The program also includes four weeks of paid work experience during the student’s second year and potential employment pathways upon graduation.
Tyler Hobby, currently studying Bachelor of Accounting and Finance at Flinders University, discovered the opportunity through his school’s social media just one day before applications closed. His success story
highlights the program’s accessibility and the untapped talent in regional communities.
“The financial support helps with the practical challenges of studying away from home, but the mentorship and industry connections will be invaluable. Having mentors like Ben Trengove and Ben Davies, who both come from regional backgrounds, means they truly understand the journey,” said Tyler.
With regional students often facing additional barriers, including relocation costs, limited local opportunities, and distance from professional networks, the scholarship addresses these specific challenges while nurturing the next generation of finance professionals. The timing proves particularly relevant as the accounting industry faces ongoing talent shortages. William Buck’s investment in regional talent represents a strategic approach to building a sustainable workforce while maintaining strong community connections.
Expression of interest are open for students beginning their first undergraduate degree in and Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Business, or related fields at a South Australian university in 2026.
Full application details, eligibility criteria, and application forms are available at: https://williambuck.com/lp/regional-scholarship/
