The Coalition Government will provide more than $9.5 million in scholarships for students to study in regional Australia from semester one 2021.
Destination Australia scholarships worth up to $15,000 will be available to students to undertake a qualification from a Certificate IV through to a PhD at one of 17 tertiary education providers across 36 campuses in regional communities.
Minister for Education Dan Tehan said the Destination Australia scholarships would provide financial support to more than 250 students, who would also get the opportunity to live and learn in regional Australia.
"These scholarships will give students the opportunity to experience the great lifestyle and educational facilities in regional Australia while also boosting local communities and education and training providers," Mr Tehan said.
"Our Government is committed to supporting growth in regional education and encouraging students to consider the high-quality educational opportunities available outside our capital cities.
"These scholarships complement the additional $400 million in support to regional students and regional universities contained in our Government's Job-ready Graduates reforms."
Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business, Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash, said research showed students who studied in regional areas were more likely to stay there after graduation.
"By helping students take up regional vocational education and training opportunities, Destination Australia makes it easier for students to transition to the workforce in regional communities," Minister Cash said.
"The National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy report showed students who completed tertiary study in a regional community had better employment outcomes than their city counterparts."
Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said Destination Australia would help regional and rural communities get back on their feet following the bushfires, drought and COVID-19 pandemic.
"Destination Australia gives students the opportunity to escape the big cities and experience country Australia," Minister Gee said.
"Our regions have a lot to offer, from an unbeatable quality of life, to a world class education and job opportunities following graduation.
"Through programs such as Destination Australia, the Australian Government is improving educational outcomes for students and driving economic growth in our regions."
