Generous $1.25M gift, the Cowley family’s enduring legacy to support Western Sydney University students
Western Sydney University has received a generous $1.25 million bequest from the late Anthony Cowley – the largest gift in will ever left to the University in its 35-year history.
This significant bequest represents an enduring legacy for the Cowley family that will provide meaningful support for research and future generations of students at Western Sydney University.
This bequest will help establish endowed scholarships, ensuring perpetual support for students studying accounting and medicine. These include two undergraduate scholarships titled Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley Scholarships in Accounting, and a PhD scholarship titled Anthony Cowley and Margaret June Cowley PhD Scholarship in Medicine.
Mr Cowley was a retired Tax Agent who operated his own accounting practice, passing away at the age of 96 on 27 April 2023. Married to his wife Margaret for nearly 66 years; she passed away in October 2013.
He spent his later years in Gilead, Macarthur area, and was aware of Western Sydney University’s Campbelltown campus serving Southwestern Sydney. He was committed to supporting education in the region, with his generosity warmly received by the University.
Mr Cowley’s son, Paul, was honoured to carry out his father’s wishes that will set future students up for success.
“He was a simple man. He worked hard all his life to provide for his family and he was in a position at the end of his life to extend that beyond his family,” said Paul.
Leaving a bequest is a powerful way for donors to create lasting impact beyond their lifetime. Through the Cowley family’s generous gift, these endowed scholarships will empower students to reach their full potential.
“We are deeply grateful for this remarkable bequest. Such generosity reflects a profound belief in our mission and will allow us to create new opportunities that honour the Cowley family legacy for years to come,” said Chancellor, Professor Jennifer Westacott AC.
Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO added: “This is an exceptional act of philanthropy embodying Mr Cowley’s commitment to community impact, and we are sincerely thankful for the opportunity to expand access to education to even more students across the region.”
The Cowley family’s bequest is a powerful reminder that philanthropy is not just about giving, it is about supporting ambitions and building a brighter tomorrow. It shows us that by investing in education and research today, we can transform lives and strengthen communities for years to come.
Bequest donors hold a truly distinctive place in shaping the future of Western Sydney University. Through their foresight and commitment, they empower students to achieve their aspirations, drive innovation, and contribute to stronger, more resilient communities.
ENDS
27 November 2025
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