Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch said there would be more opportunities for students in Far North Queensland to go to university with the federal government providing an additional $34.1 million for scholarships for regional and remote students.
Mr Entsch said the federal government was funding an additional 1,995 scholarships through the Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program.
This is on top of the 1,200 scholarships that are currently available.
The scholarships support students from regional and rural communities wanting to study courses such as science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM).
Applications are currently open for Round 2 of the $24 million Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program.
“Scholarships of up to $18,000 are available to help students in Far North Queensland with the costs of studying at a university or a vocational education and training institution,” Mr said.
“The scholarships may also include internships to help students develop their professional experience and ensure they’re job-ready.
“Our government believes that every Australian should have access to our world-leading higher education system, no matter where they live, and that is why we have more than doubled the number of STEM scholarships for regional and remote students.
“A scholarship could help a promising Far North Queensland student realise their potential and get a STEM education that will open a world of future possibilities.
“New guidelines will also make it easier for drought-affected students to apply, including families receiving the Farm Household Allowance.
“I encourage every student in Far North Queensland who wants to pursue a tertiary qualification in the STEM field to consider applying for a scholarship in this expanded program.”
The current round of scholarships close Friday 14 December 2018.
For more information, including on how to apply, visit https://www.education.gov.au/rural-and-regional-enterprise-scholarships or https://www.qtac.edu.au/scholarships
