The scholarship program is designed to support local women and the valuable contribution they make to our community across a range of fields, including arts, culture, environment, business, community, health and sport.

All women aged 16 years and over, who have an important goal they would like to achieve, are encouraged to apply for one of the 2018 scholarships.

Liz Akerman, Council's Acting Community Development and Engagement Coordinator, says Port Stephens Council is proud to support International Women's Day.

"These scholarships are a real chance for women in Port Stephens to expand their knowledge, skill or experience in a field of their interest – whether that's achieving a personal goal, or one that contributes to the wider community," Ms Akerman said.

"It's fantastic for Council to be able to offer these scholarships for the very first time, so that we can acknowledge some of the amazing women of Port Stephens and support their aspirations.

"A big thanks must go to former Councillor Sally Dover, who was the driving force behind this initiative," she added.

Nominations close 28 January 2018, with the awardees to be announced 8 March 2018 at the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay's International Women's Day lunch.

Darcy Geale, President of the Rotary Club of Salamander Bay, says Rotary is proud to be part of the joint initiative with Council.

"The scholarships will encourage further valuable participation by women in our community," Mr Geale said.

"As a Rotary Club, one of our key focuses is the involvement of youth in the future of our community, and this scholarship program is one way that we can encourage that," he said.

At the end of the scholarship period, the successful candidates will be asked to make a small presentation at the 2019 lunch on how they used the scholarship.

For more information and to apply, visit https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/live/community/2018-iwd-scholarship-program