The Centre for Independent Studies offers three student programs under the Liberty & Society banner — a residential conference, an online fellowship, and a full-day workshop. All are fully subsidised and open to young Australians with an interest in ideas around freedom, markets, and individual liberty.
Liberty & Society Conference
A two-day live-in conference exploring economics, political philosophy, and public policy through a classical liberal lens. Held 22–24 May 2026 at Pullman Sydney Airport.
Applications are now open.
Liberty & Society Student Fellowship
A selective, fully subsidised 10-month online program running April–December, with 13 sessions covering economics, regulation, AI, free speech, and more.
Applications are now open.
Liberty & Society Workshop
A full-day, in-person workshop designed to equip young Australians aged 18–27 with practical skills in financial independence and entrepreneurship. Held at CIS offices in Sydney, with travel bursaries available for participants from regional NSW, Newcastle, and Canberra.
Date to be confirmed — express your interest now.
About the Liberty & Society Student Programs
Liberty and Society is a longstanding CIS initiative designed to introduce students to classical liberal philosophy and equip them with the tools to think critically about freedom, markets, and the role of government. Since its founding, the program has supported over 1,000 students, with alumni including Josh Frydenberg, Kelly O’Dwyer, and Simon Bridges.
The programs are designed for undergraduates, recent graduates, and postgraduates who want to go beyond the classroom and engage seriously with economic, political, and philosophical ideas. No prior background in classical liberalism is required — only intellectual curiosity and a willingness to engage.
Who Can Apply?
Both programs welcome individuals over the age of 18 from Australia and New Zealand. The Workshop is open to Australians aged 18–27. Applicants from any field of study are encouraged to apply. The programs are not available to high school students.
Scholarships
Participation in all three programs is fully subsidised. The Conference and Fellowship cover all meals, accommodation, and session fees. The Workshop covers all meals and offers travel bursaries for participants from regional NSW, Newcastle, and Canberra. Funding is provided by CIS donors and supported by the Mannkal Economic Education Foundation and the Lyngala Foundation.
Alumni & Opportunities
Graduates of all three programs join the Liberty & Society Alumni Network, which provides ongoing access to:
- Professional and intellectual networks
- Internship opportunities
- Subsidised attendance at major CIS events and conferences
- Priority access to Advanced Liberty & Society programs
