Media releases

Federation University Australia is transforming the lives of students through a record number of scholarships awarded in 2022. 

This year the University, in partnership with generous donors, is awarding 194 scholarships across its campuses totalling more than $540,000. 

The scholarships give students the opportunity to succeed in their studies without the stress of financial pressure, helping to cover costs including textbooks, petrol, groceries and computers. 

Among them is Wimmera Community Bank Network Scholarship recipient Emily Oliver who has embarked on a Diploma of Nursing after previously working in the disability sector. 

Emily said she was inspired to study nursing after the excellent care she received following the tragic loss last year of her son Henry who was stillborn. 

She said the scholarship took the financial pressure off juggling study, work, travel and caring for her three-year-old daughter Lara. 

Federation University’s scholarship program began with four foundation scholarships in 2013 and has grown to support hundreds of students in need of assistance through the generous support of alumni, staff, businesses and community donors. 

More information about Federation University’s scholarships can be found here. 

Quotes attributable to Federation University Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Duncan Bentley 

“Our purpose is to transform lives and enhance communities and these scholarships help to ease the financial pressure on students, providing them with the opportunity to not only succeed in their studies, but thrive within their local communities.” 

“These scholarships are possible through the generosity of our donors and are a celebration of the long history of community partnership across our campuses.” 

Quotes attributable to scholarship recipient Emily Oliver  

“Nursing is something I was always interested in, but too scared to do. After losing my son last year, the nurses were so supportive. They were genuine, down to earth people who cried when you cried and shared their real-life stories.” 

“This followed the inspiring care we received after my daughter was born in 2019 and spent three weeks in special care.” 

“I thought ‘I can change somebody’s life as well’. I’m excited to finish my diploma and hopefully one day study a Bachelor of Nursing.” 

“This scholarship means a lot. It takes the pressure off financially, meaning I don’t have to work as much as well as juggle mum and study life.”