More tertiary students will be eligible to receive a $3000 to $5000 relocation grant from the federal government after it expanded a regional education scheme.
The one-off Tertiary Access Payment is available to school leavers from remote, regional and now inner regional areas to cover relocation costs so they can access higher education.
Regional Education Minister Bridget McKenzie said regional students typically faced higher relocation costs than people in inner-city areas and the payment will give them a “leg up”.
“This funding provides students with the reassurance that support is available to make the decision to continue their tertiary education and the cost to do so easier,” she said.
“The time leading up to finishing high school and beyond can be a stressful period. This payment will encourage more students to continue their education beyond year 12.”
