Aged Care Nursing Scholarships

Aged Care Nursing Scholarships up to $10,000 each for study in 2006

In line with the Australian Government’s goal of increasing the number of nurses in aged care, Royal College of Nursing, Australia (RCNA), the fund administrator of the Aged Care Nursing ScholarshipScheme-Undergraduate today announced the availability of the 2005 round of offers for study in 2006.

This national scheme removes some of the barriers faced by people working in aged care who would like to study, but find the cost too high. Ms Bryant, Executive Director of Royal College of Nursing Australia (RCNA) said, “This scheme is a wonderful opportunity for nurses in the aged care industry to enhance their own professional development as well as creating a better skilled aged care workforce.”

Scholarships are available under this scheme for people wishing to undertake an accredited entry to practice undergraduate nursing course at an Australian university, and provides financial assistance up to $5000 per semester to a maximum of $30,000 per applicant, during their nursing studies.

In addition, scholarships are available to Registered/Division one nurses wishing to undertake further studies that are directly relevant to their nursing employment in aged care. These scholarships provide financial assistance of to $10,000 per applicant.

RCNA is seeking applications from people who are Australian citizens, or permanent residents. Applicants must also be able to demonstrate a background in aged care. Preference will be given to applicants living and working in regional and rural areas; however, applicants living in metropolitan areas who possess an aged care background will also be considered.

For further information including application forms and guidelines contact the Fund Administrator at: freecall 1800 11 66 96, www.rcna.org.au or by email scholarships@rcna.org.au

The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday 26 August 2005.