Our inspiration
General Sir John Monash GCMG KCB VD (27 June 1865 — 8 October 1931) was a revered Australian military leader, engineer and advocate for education. Monash’s life and values are an inspiration to many Australians and the guiding spirit of the General Sir John Monash Foundation.
Across every chapter of his life – on the battlefield, in the boardroom and within the community – Monash demonstrated exceptional foresight, integrity and a commitment to a more cohesive Australian society.
A scholar, engineer and nation builder
Born in Melbourne to Jewish Prussian immigrants in 1865, Monash showed a love of learning from an early age. A true renaissance man, Monash sought diversity in his education, completing a Master of Engineering, a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Laws and a Doctorate of Engineering from the University of Melbourne.
He also excelled in his career as a civil engineer, working on major infrastructure projects, serving as President of the Victorian Institute of Engineers and later as Chairman of the State Electricity Commission of Victoria. He was Vice-Chancellor of the University of Melbourne for two years starting in 1923.
A distinguished military leader
In World War I, Monash rose to the rank of General and is recognised as being instrumental in the success of the Allied Forces. He was knighted in the field and is revered for his leadership in battle and for his post-war care and repatriation of Australian troops.
Monash played a significant role in the origins of ANZAC Day and was a driving force for the establishment of the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne. He died in 1931 and more than 300,000 mourners attended his state funeral – Australia’s largest at the time.
“Loyalty to a common cause, courage, comradeship and mutual co-operation are part of our tradition and an inspiration to all Australians”
General Sir John Monash GCMG KCB VD
The John Monash legacy
Monash’s legacy is etched into the fabric of our nation and proudly lives on through the John Monash Scholarships.
Each John Monash Scholar carries forward Monash’s vision, applying their knowledge and leadership for a more resilient, prosperous and socially cohesive Australia.
