'Seize the day': NSWALC Scholarships

February 7, 2011

The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) is urging the state's Aboriginal community to apply for NSWALC scholarships to assist in their education. Scholarships are awarded for courses, equipment, boarding, and fees for schools, universities, TAFE and other approved educational institutions.

Scholarships are financed each year from the interest generated from NSWALC's Education Endowment Fund. The fund will run in conjunction with the existing Freddie Fricke Scholarship which is targeted at tertiary education. Speaking on behalf of all nine councillors across the state, NSWALC Chairwoman Bev Manton encouraged all eligible applicants in the region to apply and be a step ahead of the rest.

"Our elected Councillors have always been ardent supporters of Aboriginal people gaining a solid educational footing in life.

"By applying for a NSWALC scholarship, Aboriginal Local Land Council members will be making the most of their opportunities...to 'seize the day' as they say.

"The Education Endowment Fund is a NSWALC push to kick-start a life of learning for Aboriginal people, especially our children.

"So we're proud to say that the scheme has been a runaway success since its inaugural year in 2007, we've had many hundreds of successful applicants receive much needed grants across the state," Ms Manton said.

"As part of the governing council of NSWALC, it's our collective vision that these scholarships provide a much needed 'leg-up' for our people.

"I can only hope that this kick-start will translate into higher earning capacities and broader skill sets for this state's Aboriginal people."

"Knowledge is power and it's the one lasting weapon Aboriginal people have to shake the grip of inter-generational poverty and finally enjoy the standard of living we deserve.

"So I'd encourage any Aboriginal Local Land Council member or their children to get onto the NSWALC Scholarship website http://www.scholarshipsalc.com.au and apply now.

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Munro 0438 760 242

SCHOLARSHIP CONTACT/ APPLIATIONS/ QUERIES:

Margaret Dent (02) 9929 9633 or 0400 121 180

  CLOSING DATES

• Applications for the Primary & Secondary 2011 Scholarshipsclose on Friday 25 February 2011 at 5pm.
• Applications for the Tertiary, Tafe & Vocational 2011 Scholarships close on Friday 25 March 2011 at 5pm.

APPLICANTS MUST:

• Be a member of a NSW Local Aboriginal Land Council, or if under 18, at least one parent must be a member.
• Be enrolled and studying at an approved New South Wales educational facility.  Courses conducted by approved interstate educational facilities are acceptable (but not overseas study or travel).
• Provide full details and evidence of all course and/or school fees and expenses paid or claimable by ABSTUDY; or any other scholarship program or funding program.
• Go to http://www.scholarshipsalc.com.au