Scholarships open for vulnerable youth

Some of the state’s most disadvantaged young people will be supported to achieve their academic aspirations as part of the NSW Government’s Youth Development Scholarships program. 
 
Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Alister Henskens said applications are now open for the $1,000 scholarships to students in Years 10, 11 and 12 or TAFE equivalent. 
 
“A good education is the foundation for a better future. This program supports disadvantaged students by reducing financial barriers so they may engage in study,” Mr Henskens said. 
 
“It is about giving young people who need support a helping hand. These scholarships will help students achieve their educational dreams.”
 
The program supports young people living in social housing or on the housing register, students receiving private rental assistance, or those living in supported accommodation or out-of-home care.
 
The funds can be used to help pay for education-related expenses such as textbooks, IT equipment and internet access. 
 
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said more than 3,300 students have been supported by the scholarship program since it was established in 2017.  
 
“Fires, floods and COVID-19 have posed significant social and economic challenges for our communities, and have particularly affected young people,” Ms Mitchell said.
 
“These grants will help reduce the financial burden for more students so they can focus on their studies.”
 
The Youth Development Scholarships program is part of Future Directions for Social Housing in NSW, a ten-year plan to drive better outcomes for social housing tenants.
 
For more information on how to apply, visit Youth Development Scholarships 2022.