COFFS Harbour youths and veterans interested in undertaking a vocational education and training (VET) qualification this year are now eligible for up to $13,000 to assist them with their studies.

Round Four of the Commonwealth Scholarships Program for Young Australians is now open for those living in 10 selected regions, with up to $5,000 on offer per year for two years, along with an additional $3,000 if they also complete a 20-day paid internship.

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Young people aged 15-24 are eligible for the scholarship, but must not be in full-time work or study at the time of applying, and intend on taking an eligible VET qualification from Certificate III through to an Advanced Diploma.

Host employers can receive $1,500 per intern hosted.

To be eligible applicants must live in the NSW regions of Grafton (including Coffs Harbour) and Gosford, Alice Springs (NT), Maryborough and Townsville (Qld), Port Pirie (SA), Burnie (Tas), Shepparton (Vic) and Wanneroo and Armadale in Western Australia.

Eligible occupations for the Commonwealth scholarships are available in the Health Care and Social Assistance, Construction, Arts and Recreation Services, Financial and Insurance Services, Professionals and Scientists and Technical Services, and Sports and Recreation industries.

The scholarships target occupations identified in projected growth industries and in-demand occupations within the region.

Federal Minister for Regionalisation, Regional Communications and Regional Education Senator the Hon Bridget McKenzie said it was a great opportunity for those in the 10 selected regions to take part in the nation’s skills-led economic recovery.

“This program will provide a valuable boost to those young people and veterans looking to upskill and undertake sought after internships and VET qualifications and increase the number of skilled workers in our regions,” Minister McKenzie said.

Federal Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said Round 4 of the program will provide more training opportunities for those who have transitioned from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in the past two years.

“Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be a difficult time and these scholarships will help give veterans additional skills and qualifications on top of their valuable military experience,” Minister Gee said.

“Australian businesses already recognise the significant benefits that former Defence force personnel can bring to a workplace, and further expanding training and employment opportunities for our ex-service personnel is a win for veterans, business and the Australian economy.”

Assistant Minister for Youth and Employment Services the Hon Luke Howarth MP said the Australian Government has expanded the program with an extra $2.9 million allocated in the 2021-22 Federal Budget.

“Young people have been among the hardest hit from the COVID-19 pandemic, so opportunities like this will be immensely helpful, especially for those in disadvantaged communities,” Assistant Minister Howarth said.

Applications for the scholarships close on Friday 11 March.

For further information on how to apply visit www.dese.gov.au/commonwealth-scholarships-program-young-australians.