The fund provides financial assistance to local youth seeking to further their studies or career in a broad range of education and career pursuits — university students, apprentices, trainees, cadets and other forms of degrees, diplomas and certificate level studies.
Applications, which can be completed online at http://cef.org.au/apply-now/, close January 31, 2020.
Edward River Country Education Fund member Bruce Simpson said youth aged 16 to 24 are eligible, and candidates can apply each year even if they were successful in previous years.
All applications are judged initially on a set of key criteria, including:
● You have a demonstrated financial need● You are aged between 16 and 24● You have attended school in or currently live in the region covered by your local CEF● You demonstrate commitment to achieving your goals
Mr Simpson said community and personal circumstance are also considered when determining successful applicants.
‘‘The four criteria are important in considering who is eligible, but it is also important to take into account each applicant’s own circumstances when applying,’’ he said.
‘‘Sometimes a little bit of support goes a long way to give someone a chance when things might not be going that well for them.
‘‘This consideration allows us to give students opportunities and support them in their choices.
‘‘It’s all about community support, and what better way to do it than by giving the kids of our region a helping hand — they are our community’s future.’’