Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Scholarships available

Applications are now being sought for the Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme, which aims to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in the Australian health care system, by providing scholarships worth up to $15,000 per annum.

Funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, and administered by the Royal College of Nursing, Australia (RCNA), the Scheme which is now in its fourth year, was established in memory of the former Chair of the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO), Dr Arnold “Puggy” Hunter and his significant contribution to Aboriginal health.

The Scheme is open for study in 2006 to those who are already enrolled, or intend enrolling in accredited VET and university courses such as nursing, medicine, allied health (excluding pharmacy), Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Worker Certificates III or IV, and Diploma or Advanced Diploma Courses.

For the first time, the 2006 scholarships will be offered for both part, and full time study.
RCNA’s Executive Director, Ms Rosemary Bryant said, “The opportunity for nurses to study part time opens a window of opportunity for people wanting to remain in the workforce, while furthering their education. We welcome any initiative that encourages Indigenous people to enter the health system and continue their studies”.

Intending applicants must be either Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and be able to provide proof of that status. Scholarships will be available for the start of the 2006 academic year.
Further information, and application packs are available by contacting RCNA on freecall 1800 688 628, on the website at www.rcna.org.au or by emailing scholarships@rcna.org.au .

Applications close on Friday 12 August 2005.