Media Releases

Member for Swan Hill Peter Walsh is encouraging students from across the region to apply for The Nationals Scholarship for Young Leaders.

The Nationals Scholarship for Young Leaders is open to students aged 16-25 who are attending their first year of tertiary study and awards a share in $5,000 for one or more successful applicants.

“The Nationals recognise the high costs young country people face studying in metropolitan areas,” Mr Walsh said.

“Accessing higher education is now even harder due to the Federal Labor Government’s proposed Youth Allowance changes which require students to work 30 hours a week for up to two years to qualify for independent Youth Allowance,” he said.

“Without financial assistance many country students cannot afford the high cost of living away from home, which is around $20,000 a year.

“The Nationals Scholarship is a positive contribution to helping country students overcome the economic barriers that prevent country students from attaining a tertiary qualification,” Mr Walsh said.

“I encourage all students currently in Year 12 who are undertaking tertiary study in 2010 to consider applying for the Nationals Scholarship,” he said.

The Nationals Scholarship will open in January 2010 and close at the end of February. Contact Peter Walsh’s office on 5032 3154 or email peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au for more information.