Flinders University is involved in a new pilot program offering financial support to veterans and partners of current and former Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, to undertake training or higher education study that improves their job prospects.
Launched during May, the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program has been developed in response to community feedback about the financial barriers to higher education faced by former serving ADF members and partners.
A total of $50,000 in funding will be made available in the grant round covering studies undertaken at TAFE, university, or a registered training organisation in the second half of 2024. Through the scholarships, eligible veterans and partners can apply to receive up to 75% of their out-of-pocket education expenses, capped at $5,000 per applicant.
Flinders University’s Professor Ben Wadham, who is also an Australian Army veteran, says higher education provides a great pathway for veterans to draw upon their unique skills and experience to reset for a new chapter.
“One of the challenges with engaging in higher education after service is supporting yourself or your family. Higher education scholarships can help secure your passage through university and into civilian employment,” says Professor Wadham.
“Personally, my studies helped me understand my service, remake myself as a civilian to find new purpose in a different field of endeavour, and become part of a new community. Overall, it was an empowering and liberating experience.”
Scholarship funds can be used by applicants to support costs such as tuition, textbooks, resources and required course equipment for study. Higher priority will be given to applicants who seek to develop their skills and knowledge in the State Government’s priority skills areas, including construction, defence and space, and early childhood education.
Veterans SA Acting Director Rebecca van Reesema says the pilot program aims to reduce the financial challenges by supporting applicants to pursue study and training opportunities to further their career aspirations.
“Ensuring South Australia has a strong, vibrant, and well-supported veteran community is a key priority for Veterans SA and we know that the financial aspect of higher education can be a barrier for veterans and partners to seek out new opportunities,” says Ms van Reesema.
“This pilot program is designed to reduce those barriers and help equip veterans and partners with the skills needed to thrive in their future careers.”
Applications for the Veterans SA Tertiary Scholarship Program are open until Tuesday 18 June and for more information or to apply, visit veteranssa.sa.gov.au/tertiary-scholarship-program.