About the Fellowship

The Menzies-Roosevelt Policy Fellowship is named in honor of former Australian Prime Minister Robert Menzies and U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt, recognizing their roles in establishing formal diplomatic relations between Australia and the United States in 1940. This fellowship embodies their legacy of partnership and mutual understanding, aiming to foster the next generation of policy leaders dedicated to advancing the strategic relationship between the two nations.

This Fellowship Program, is a six-month initiative by the Australian-American Young Leaders Forum, and is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders (aged 18-35) with advanced skills in policy analysis and advocacy. Throughout the program, fellows will engage in rigorous research to draft and publish policy briefs on critical issues affecting US-Australia relations, while also identifying new opportunities to strengthen and expand the bilateral partnership. These policy briefs may be leveraged by the Australian-American Young Leaders Forum to develop informed policy proposals that shape our advocacy campaigns and government engagement efforts. The program offers comprehensive mentorship, expert-led workshops, collaborative peer networks, and platforms for fellows to showcase their work and contribute meaningfully to policy discussions.

Through this fellowship, participants will gain invaluable experience in policy development, network with like-minded peers and experts, and play a pivotal role in promoting bilateral understanding and cooperation between Australia and the United States.

What You Will Gain

• Policy Research and Advocacy Skills: Learn to research, analyze, and draft impactful policy briefs on key issues that shape US-Australia relations.

• Mentorship from Experts: Work closely with experienced mentors, including policy experts, diplomats, and academics, who will provide guidance and feedback throughout the fellowship.

• Publication Opportunities: Collaborate with our partners to publish your work, gaining visibility and credibility in the policy community.

• Networking and Professional Development: Connect with a diverse network of young leaders, policymakers, and diplomats from both Australia and the United States, enhancing your professional network.

• Advocacy Platform: Your policy briefs will be featured in our advocacy campaigns, helping to influence decision-makers and amplify youth perspectives on critical bilateral issues.

Program Structure

• Duration: 6 months

• Format: Hybrid model with both virtual and occasional in-person sessions

Components:

• Policy Workshops: Interactive sessions on policy analysis, research methods, and advocacy strategies, led by experts in the field.

• Mentorship Program: One-on-one mentorship with experienced professionals to guide you in drafting high-quality policy briefs.

• Peer Review and Collaboration: Collaborate with fellow participants, exchange feedback, and refine your policy ideas through a structured peer-review process.

• Publication and Advocacy: Finalized policy briefs will be published and used as key advocacy tools to promote youth perspectives in US-Australia relations.

Key Focus Areas

Fellows will have the opportunity to explore and develop policy briefs on a range of topics, including but not limited to:

• Economic Security

• Emerging Technology

• Foreign Policy & Defence

• Politics, Society & Culture

Who Should Apply?

We are looking for passionate young professionals, recent graduates, and university students aged 18-35 from Australia who:

• Have a strong interest in policy-making, international relations, and US-Australia relations.

• Are eager to develop their policy research, analysis, and advocacy skills.

• Are committed to making a positive impact and amplifying youth voices in bilateral discussions.

How to Apply

• Step 1: Ensure you’re registered as a member.

• Step 2: Submit a resume, a statement of interest (500 words max), and a writing sample on a relevant policy issue to the email address listed below.

• Step 3: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview with our selection panel.

Application Deadline: 15 January 2025

Join Us and Make Your Voice Heard

Be part of a dynamic cohort of young leaders who are shaping the future of US-Australia relations. Apply now to the Australian-American Young Leaders Forum Policy Fellowship Program and take the first step in making a lasting impact.

For more information, please contact us at admin@aaylf.org.