New round of vocational scholarships open for veterans

Veterans and young Australians can apply for scholarships of up to $13,000 to cover the costs of an eligible vocational education and training (VET) qualification and internship.

The Australian Government has recently announced Round 4 of the Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians, which includes former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who have transitioned  in the past two years.

Round Four of the Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians is now open for those living in ten selected regions, with up to $5,000 on offer per year for two years, along with an additional $3,000 if they also complete a 20-day paid internship.

‘Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be a difficult time and these scholarships will help give veterans additional skills and qualifications on top of their valuable military experience,’ said Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel, Andrew Gee.

‘Australian businesses already recognise the significant benefits that former ADF personnel can bring to a workplace, and further expanding training and employment opportunities for our ex-service personnel is a win for veterans, business and the Australian economy.’

Applicants – whether people aged 15–24 or former ADF of any age who have transitioned in the past two years – are eligible, but must not be in full-time work or study at the time of applying. Their intention must be to gain an eligible VET qualification at one of the following levels: Certificate III, Certificate IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma.

Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, Stuart Robert, himself a veteran, said better supporting young people and those transitioning from military service will strengthen Australia’s workforce.

‘These kinds of opportunities will help build our workforce,’ Minister Robert said. ‘We’re already seeing hundreds of thousands of Australians upskilling or reskilling thanks to programs like this, as well as JobTrainer, and TAFE and apprenticeship funding.’

Host employers can receive $1,500 per intern hosted.

To be eligible, applicants must live in the following regions:

  • New South Wales – Grafton (including Coffs Harbour) and Gosford
  • Northern Territory – Alice Springs
  • Queensland – Maryborough and Townsville
  • South Australia – Port Pirie
  • Tasmania – Burnie
  • Victoria – Shepparton
  • Western Australia – Wanneroo and Armadale

Applications close on 11 March 2022.

For more details on how to apply, visit the Department of Education, Skills and Employment website.

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