A partnership between Greater Western Water (GWW) and the not-for-profit organization Western Chances is making a significant impact on young people in Melbourne’s western suburbs. The collaboration, announced in May 2024, involves a commitment of $75,000 over three years aimed at providing scholarships that help students overcome barriers in their educational and employment journeys.
Western Chances focuses on supporting young students, particularly those from migrant backgrounds, who face difficulties accessing educational resources. The organization offers scholarships, internships, and events designed to empower these individuals. According to GWW’s General Manager for Strategy and Partnerships, Kessia Thomson, the Thriving Communities sponsorship program is intended to fund local initiatives that foster strong community connections.
“Western Chances is all about keeping young people in education, creating equity and opportunity, and this aligns brilliantly with our goal to help build Thriving Communities,” Thomson stated.
Since the inception of the GWW and Western Chances partnership, 44 students have received scholarship grants ranging from $650 to $1,000 each. These scholarships have been utilized for essential educational resources, such as textbooks, laptops, internet access, lab coats, and travel cards for students aged 18 and older.
In addition to scholarships, the partnership has facilitated four West Connect events aimed at developing students’ job readiness. These events included a networking session focused on the graduate job market and an internship fair held in 2024. In 2025, the West Connect events expanded to feature a women in leadership program and a successful end-of-year celebration that brought together alumni and sponsors.
GWW’s Head of Strategy and Sustainable Water Futures, Suzanne Knight, highlighted the positive outcomes emerging from the partnership, noting, “I was delighted to meet with some of the students who have directly benefited from this important program, which is helping to meet a real need in our service area.”
The impact of this initiative resonates deeply, especially as January 24 marks the International Day of Education, a reminder of the essential role education plays in fostering participation and opportunity. Jackie Taylor, CEO of Western Chances, emphasized the importance of this support. She explained that the collaboration with GWW effectively removes financial and access barriers, enabling young people in Melbourne’s west to fully engage in learning and pursue meaningful career paths.
This partnership not only provides financial assistance but also helps to cultivate a supportive environment for students poised to shape their futures. As GWW and Western Chances continue their collaboration, many more students stand to benefit from the opportunities created through this initiative.
