Inland Rail scholarships awarded at Charles Sturt University

The scholarship program is open to undergraduate degree students living within areas close to the ARTC’s Inland Rail alignment and provides financial assistance of $5000 per year of study.

The scholarship enables students to undertake studies and ultimately pursue careers to enrich and diversify regional economies and contribute positively to their communities. Successful students also receive invaluable support from CSU to help them integrate and stay engaged in their studies.

Inland Rail Director Community & Environment Rebecca Pickering said Inland Rail is keen to support regional students by providing opportunities for them to graduate into careers which will add value to their local communities.

“These scholarships, and any employment opportunities they unlock, will act as a catalyst for positive change in many regional communities along the Inland Rail project alignment, and we are delighted to partner with Charles Sturt University in support of our locals,” Ms Pickering said.

Director of Advancement at Charles Sturt University Sarah Ansell said the scholarships would help with costs such as accommodation, equipment, relocation and sometimes food and daily living.
“On behalf of our students, Charles Sturt University would like to sincerely thank ARTC for such a wonderful and generous donation,” she said.

“The partnership has allowed the creation of a number of scholarships that have an enormous impact on the individuals receiving them, as well as bringing huge benefit to entire communities.

“In some cases, they are providing access to tertiary education that students may have not otherwise been able to afford, and in other cases they provide students with an increased likelihood of success.

“The STEM focus is vital to regional Australia and through this program we can provide core skills to our regions by way of creating professionals such as nurses, vets, radiographers and teachers.”
Recipient Jessie Rix said the Inland Rail Scholarship is a welcome bonus as the first member of her immediate family to attend university, enrolling in a Bachelor of Education at the CSU Wagga Wagga campus.

“I couldn’t believe it when I was told about the scholarship and I’m very excited and sincerely honoured to be a recipient of this incredible scholarship,” said Ms Rix.

“The funds given to me will not be taken for granted. To know that there are people out there who believe in me and supporting me on my path is great and I’m determined to make them all proud.

“I’ve always had a passion for working with children and supporting them through solving problems and providing guidance to achieve their goals and dreams.”

For information about scholarships in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria through the Inland Rail Skills Academy, visit: https://inlandrail.artc.com.au/scholarships