Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, is encouraging local students to apply for a Government-funded scholarship to study a science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) course.

Mr Joyce said the Coalition Government is increasing the number of scholarships available through the Rural and Regional Enterprise Scholarships program and is making it easier for students living in drought-affected areas, to apply.

“Every student should have access to a university or a Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification, no matter their location in Australia,” Mr Joyce said.

“Scholarships of up to $18,000 are available to help students in the New England with the costs of studying STEM.

“The scholarships are geared toward those who can least afford it and that’s why the eligibility criteria now include families substantially affected by drought, including those receiving the Farm Household Allowance.

“One of these scholarships could help a promising student in Tamworth, Armidale, Scone, Inverell or Tenterfield realise their potential and get a STEM education that will open a world of future possibilities.”

The Coalition Government has committed $58.1 million for more than 3,150 scholarships for regional and remote students.

The first round of the scholarship program has already helped 504 regional and remote students to commence study in 2018.

Applications close on Friday 1 February 2019 and offers will be made on 11 February 2019.

For further information and to apply, click here.

(ENDS)