More students will be encouraged to study in regional Australia, with the third round of the Morrison Government's popular Destination Australia scholarship program officially open.
Regional universities and vocational education providers can now apply to offer scholarships at their institutions for up to $15,000 per student a year, undertaking a qualification ranging from a Certificate IV through to PhD.
Minister for Education and Youth, Alan Tudge said the Destination Australia Program was a great opportunity for regional providers to entice students to study and experience the benefits of regional living.
"We remain committed to supporting the growth of regional education and we want to see our regional centres continue to be attractive and exciting destinations for students to study, work and live.
"We were overwhelmed with applications for 2020 and 2021, which shows a clear desire among students and providers to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.
"Round three of the program will support around 380 students starting this year while also delivering $19.5 million in Australian Government funding to continue supporting 800 ongoing scholarship holders," Minister Tudge said.
Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee said the Destination Australia scholarships would help country communities as they recover from drought, bushfires, floods and the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Our regions have a lot to offer students. Not only can they benefit from an exceptional quality of life escaping the big cities but they can also access a world-class education.
"In turn, these students can bring new skills to our regions and provide a much needed economic boost to country Australia," Minister Gee said.
