Since 2014, Glenelg Shire Council in regional Victoria has run a successful Aboriginal Educational Scholarships program.
The scholarship program was developed to encourage Glenelg Shire-based Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents to study beyond year 12 in an area relevant to local government.
Relevant fields could include: environmental health, maternal and child health, local laws, aged care and horticulture.
The program provides two $2000 scholarships and assists with the cost of school fees, the purchase of books and stationary, compulsory clothing, travel expenses and other study associated costs.
“By offering this scholarship, we hope to encourage students to complete Year 12 and further their study, helping them to gain skills in order to give back to our community,” said Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Anita Rank.
“The scholarship program will reduce the financial burden many students carry while undertaking further study.
“Since the program launched in 2014, seven students have gone on to build successful careers and achieve their tertiary education goals.”
Dhauwurd Warrung Elderly & Community Health Service Chief Executive Officer John Bell said the scholarship was ‘not just about assisting one young person, it’s about supporting their family as well’.
“In the Aboriginal community, we have a lot of young people that leave our community for better opportunities and better education.
“These scholarships not only provide that little bit extra of financial assistance and help with resources, but also teach young Aboriginal people how to become good role models.”
The scholarship program is open to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people aged between 17 and 24.
Applications for the current round are open until Friday 27 October.
