Scholarships To Support Local Apprentices

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP has today announced that the New South Wales Government is providing $1.5 million to assist apprentices through the annual Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship program.

Mr Ward said that 100 scholarships worth $15,000 each will support apprentices who are experiencing financial or personal hardship and demonstrate a commitment to a career in vocational education and training.

“The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship program offers a great incentive for eligible locals to kick-start their career,” he said.

“Apprenticeships are vital to ensuring NSW has a pipeline of skilled workers in growth areas but we understand it’s not always easy to complete a qualification.

“The scholarship program is all about giving aspiring apprentices an opportunity to start, change or further their career,” Mr Ward said.

The NSW Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education Dr Geoff Lee MP said that the NSW Government is committed to ensuring training for apprentices remains accessible to all.

“As NSW has seen through the global pandemic, apprentices remain a crucial part the state’s economy and make a strong contribution to local businesses and communities,” Mr Lee said.

“I encourage the people of NSW to explore the range of initiatives and programs available to support apprentices, including the Bert Evans Scholarship program and the NSW Government’s fee-free apprenticeships initiative,” Minister Lee said.

The scholarship program is named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, a passionate advocate of vocational education for more than 30 years.

Please visit the website at: www.training.nsw.gov.au/bert_evans_scholarships or phone 13 28 11 for more information and to apply before the 28th May 2021 closing date.