The Destination Australia Scholarship is an Australian government initiative that supports both domestic and international students to study in regional Australia. This program addresses skill shortages in regional areas, boosts local economies, and offers students unique academic experiences outside of major cities. The scholarship provides financial support to offset the costs of living and studying, making regional education a more accessible option. This scholarship encourages international students to live and study in vibrant, regional communities.
The Australian Government launched this scholarship to attract students to regional areas. Students gain access to high-quality education and diverse career pathways. This scholarship aims to develop a skilled workforce to meet the needs of regional industries. Scholarship recipients are able to benefit from smaller class sizes, stronger community connections, and lower costs of living. The Destination Australia Scholarship is a strategic investment in the future of both students and regional communities.
The program directly supports students pursuing qualifications from Certificate IV to Ph.D. level. It is available at universities and VET (Vocational Education and Training) providers located in regional areas. The scholarship provides a pathway to professional growth and personal enrichment. This scholarship is not just a financial award; it is an investment in your future success in a dynamic environment.
Scholarship Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Awarding Body | Australian Government |
| Scholarship Value | Up to $15,000 per student per year |
| Study Level | Certificate IV, Diploma, Bachelor’s, and Postgraduate Degrees |
| Eligible Campuses | Participating regional Australian universities and VET providers |
| Residency Requirement | Must live in a regional area for the duration of the study |
| Target Audience | Domestic and international students |
Scholarship Coverage
The Destination Australia Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support for students. The scholarship provides $15,000 per year to help cover various educational and living expenses. This funding can be used for tuition fees, accommodation costs, and study-related expenses. The scholarship is paid in installments to the student’s nominated bank account. It is awarded for the full duration of a student’s course, up to a maximum of four years. This consistent funding allows students to focus on their studies without significant financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria
There are three key eligibility requirements for the Destination Australia Scholarship:
- You must be a newly commencing student, not a current student already enrolled in your course.
- You must be enrolled in an eligible full-time course at a participating regional campus. Eligible courses include a Certificate IV, Diploma, Bachelor’s, or Postgraduate degree.
- You must maintain residency in a regional or remote area of Australia for the duration of the scholarship. The Department of Education provides a list of eligible postcodes.
Application Process: A Comprehensive Guide
To apply for the Destination Australia Scholarship, follow a structured process. This scholarship is administered by individual universities, not directly by the Australian Government. The first step is to find a participating university. A list of eligible tertiary education providers is available on the Department of Education’s website. The second step is to select an eligible course at a regional campus of that provider. Eligible courses span from Certificate IV to Ph.D. level.
After selecting your course and university, submit an application directly to the university’s scholarship office. The application process typically involves completing a form and providing supporting documentation. You must provide academic documents, such as official transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English proficiency. You must also write a personal statement. Your personal statement should explain your motivation for studying in a regional area and how the scholarship will support your academic goals. The university’s scholarship office will review all applications and select recipients based on academic merit and the strength of their application. Scholarship committees review application essays, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
