The firm has launched a national scholarship program designed to help disadvantaged students. Called the Mallesons Aspire Award, it will be presented to a Year 11 high school student who would have otherwise struggled to meet the costs associated with tertiary study, in each of the five Australian states in which the firm has a presence.

Mallesons’ chief executive partner, Robert Milliner, said: “In the coming years, the Mallesons Aspire Award will allow us to make a difference to the futures of our most deserving young people by providing them will the inspiration and financial support to pursue their ambitions.”  

The Smith Family’s CEO, Dr Lisa O’Brien, said that the award represents a significant opportunity forLearning for Life students, who are often the first in their families to go to University.  

“Thanks to the support of Mallesons, these students will be matched with mentors to support their transition into tertiary studies. The added financial assistance will ease financial strain so they can concentrate on getting the most out of their education.”

Recipients will receive $9,000 apportioned over Year 12 and their first two years of tertiary studies. A Mallesons staff member will also be matched to each student to provide support and guidance as the student progresses through their secondary and tertiary studies and negotiates the difficulties of the ‘real world’.

Award recipients will be announced at the end of October.