Queensland’s Australian South Sea Islander students are invited to apply for scholarships on offer at four of the state’s universities for study next year.
The Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett, said the scholarships are available for study at James Cook University, Central Queensland University, University of the Sunshine Coast and the Queensland University of Technology.
Mr Bennett said the scholarships, offered through the Australian South Sea Islander Community Foundation, are for students undertaking an undergraduate degree and are open to all ages.
“These scholarships provide assistance of $5,000 per year for students studying full-time and $2,500 per year part-time,” Mr Bennett said.
“The scholarships are a great opportunity to assist students who wish to undertake further study but might not be able to due to financial constraints.
“Interested students can apply directly through the four listed universities with applications closing Friday, 8 February 2013.”
Since 2002, 38 scholarships have been awarded to Australian South Sea Islander students in Queensland.
Figures from the 2011 Census show more than 76 percent of respondents who identified as Australian South Sea Islanders live in Queensland.
“Australian South Sea Islanders have contributed significantly to Queensland’s economic, cultural and social development.
“They are a distinct cultural group with a unique history marked by disadvantage and discrimination. These university scholarships help address areas of need identified by the community including education and employment.
“Next year also marks the 150th anniversary of the arrival of the first South Sea Islanders to Queensland – a significant event not only for the Australian South Sea Islander community but for all Queenslanders, ” Mr Bennett said
Further information on the scholarship program can be found at: www.datsima.qld.gov.au/multicultural or by contacting Multicultural Affairs Queensland on 3224 5006.