Commercial Radio & Audio (CRA) has opened applications for the annual Brian White Scholarship, an initiative aimed at kick-starting careers in radio news for students and recent graduates.

The scholarship is named in honour of Brian White, the first Australian commercial radio cadet journalist, whose influential career spanned three decades. The scholarship offers finalists the opportunity to participate in a workshop with radio news professionals from Nine Radio, ARN, NOVA Entertainment and SCA. The recipient of the scholarship will gain paid internship placements at major metropolitan newsrooms, learning from senior journalists. This hands-on experience provides invaluable networking opportunities and a practical understanding of the industry.

"We are looking for talented and ambitious students or graduates who are passionate about radio news and current affairs reporting so we can help launch their radio career," CRA's chief commercial officer, Jo Dick, stated. "In the modern media landscape radio is more important than ever as a trusted and local source of news, keeping communities informed and connected."

Last year's recipient, Daneie Geddes, is now employed at Nine Radio in Sydney. Reflecting on her experience, she said the scholarship provided invaluable networking opportunities and hands-on experience.

"The most important thing I learned during my experience was the power of storytelling and the importance of connecting with listeners on a personal level — not just reading into a microphone but telling a story," she said.

Applications for the scholarship are open until 31 July, with the finalist workshop to be held in September.