Queensland Memory Awards- Monica Clare Research Fellowship 2026 ($20,000)

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About Queensland Memory Awards- Monica Clare Research 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. 

Awarded annually to people who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander to research, explore and create new knowledge about Queensland’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures using the John Oxley Library and State Library collections and resources.  

State Library’s Content Strategy  details our approach and commitment to providing greater access and use of  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander collections.  Research projects undertaken as part of the Monica Clare Research Fellowship align with the principles and values outlined in this document. 

The fellowship is named after Monica Clare, a political activist and author, Ms Clare was the first Indigenous woman to have a novel published. Her novel “Karobran” (meaning ‘together’) was published in 1978, five years after her death. 

 

• Sponsor Organisation: State Library of Queensland

Benefits of Queensland Memory Awards- Monica Clare Research Fellowship

• The fellowship recipient receives a stipend of $20,000
• a personal work space within the Neil Roberts Research Lounge for 12 months and
• premium access to State Library’s extensive collections and library staff expertise. 

Queensland Memory Awards- Monica Clare Research Fellowship Requirements

• Australian residents including interstate residents. It is expected that a portion of your fellowship will occur onsite at State Library. 
• Applications are accepted from any discipline or professional background for projects that involve research using State Library collections. This includes but is not limited to researchers, artists, creatives, filmmakers, digital media practitioners, data scientists, musicians and composers, curators and arts professionals, writers, independent scholars and other creatives. Applicants from both academic and non-academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
• Applications are accepted from individuals or pairs (maximum two co-applicants). 
• Projects already underway or with other funding are eligible, but this must be disclosed in the application. 
• Relevant archives or collections in other cultural institutions and companies can also be used. 
• Queensland Government employees must upload a letter or email of support from their manager.

Selection Criteria

Significance 

• High-quality, original and creative concept 
• Creation of new knowledge or new content about Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander history and culture in Queensland 
• Relevant and timely research, project activities and outcomes

Collection use and creation 

• Significant use of, or contribution to, State Library collections – refer to additional information section above. 
• Supports State Library’s collecting priorities outlined in our Content Strategy. 
• Potential for increasing public knowledge of State Library’s collections

Impact 

• Potential to inspire an interest in Queensland history, and foster new perspectives 
• Potential to connect State Library and Queensland’s First Nations communities 
• Potential for tangible public outcome such as creative work, exhibition, lecture, written work, online product or performance.

Application Date and Process

• short biographical statement and
• CV (maximum 3 A4 pages) o short description of your project and its relevance
• short description of how you will use or contribute to John Oxley Library or State Library collections 
• brief overview of project goals, scope and timelines 
• anticipated outcomes 
• three (3) referees 
• if applicable, details of other funding sources for the project and why fellowship funding is required, and/or details around what stage the project is in if it is not a new project

Apply Here

Application Deadline

01 August, 2025

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