How the ACS Google Scholarship is accelerating tech careers in Australia
In a fast-moving tech sector, staying competitive isn’t optional; it’s essential. The ACS Google Scholarship is helping ACS members do exactly that by giving them free access to Google Career Certificates: job-ready online qualifications built by one of the world’s leading technology companies.
This scholarship is more than a professional development opportunity; it’s a career catalyst. And based on feedback from members who’ve completed the program, the impact is clear: people are upskilling faster, growing more confident, and finding new pathways in an evolving industry.
What is the ACS Google Scholarship?
The ACS Google Scholarship gives eligible ACS members the chance to study a complimentary Google Career Certificate. These certificates cover some of the most in-demand digital skills in Australia, including:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- IT Support
- UX Design
- Project Management
Google industry experts designed the courses, which focus on hands-on, job-ready skills that can be applied immediately in the workplace.
Why does it matter for tech professionals?
The ACS Google Scholarship offers ACS members first-class tech upskilling, and the ability to:
- Pivot into a new tech specialisation
- Refresh or deepen their skills
- Build confidence before taking on new responsibilities
- Align their skill set with current industry expectations
1. Help keep pace with a changing industry
Tech roles are evolving rapidly, and professionals are expected to continuously update their skillsets. Google Career Certificates are built around current workforce needs, keeping learners aligned with what employers' value.
2. Boost confidence and career mobility
Many participants reported feeling more capable and empowered after completing their course. This boost in confidence often translates into applying for new roles, expanding responsibilities, or revisiting long-term career goals.
As one learner summarised: “The Google Career Certificates have helped me upskill, broaden the scope of my work, take on more complex tasks, and significantly boost my confidence at work.”
3. Structured, high-quality learning that fits busy lives
The certificates are flexible and self-paced, a major benefit for working professionals. Participants praised how easy it was to balance study with full-time work, family, and other commitments.
4. Open doors to new areas of specialisation
For members considering a career switch, for example, into cybersecurity or data analytics, the scholarship provides a way to test their interest and build new skills while continuing to work. As one recipient put it: “It has opened more doors but also allowed me to understand other aspects of my job.” While another commented: “The certificates definitely helped me take on more complex tasks.”
The impact—in members’ own words
A selection of feedback from scholarship recipients paints a vivid picture of its value. Across the board, participants described the scholarship as empowering, motivating, and professionally transformative. And, as one beneficiary discovered, it doesn’t hurt to have Google on your CV: “Indirectly, I have got three internships, and a part-time AI Engineering job, not solely because of the cert itself, but it did add value to my CV.”
What this means for Australia’s tech workforce
Today, tech professionals face increasing pressure to stay relevant, adapt quickly, and continuously learn. The ACS Google Scholarship is helping members meet that challenge head-on.
By giving ACS members access to world-class training without the financial burden, the scholarship is strengthening individual careers and, in turn, strengthening Australia’s tech capability.
It is a tangible example of ACS supporting its community not just as an advocate, but as an enabler of opportunity, growth, and lifelong learning.
For learning and development opportunities, please contact your ACS branch manager or follow our socials for updates.