Bendigo Bank backs students

BENDIGO Bank has bestowed scholarships to more than 320 students to the tune of $1.6 million as part of one of the largest private scholarship initiatives in Australia.

The funding aims to lessen the cost impact associated with further education by helping recipients cover accommodation, travel, tutoring and course material costs.

The program is overseen by the bank’s charitable arm, the Community Enterprise Foundation, and has supported 2304 students with scholarships valued at more than $15 million since 2017.

Bendigo Bank Chair Vicki Carter said this year the program received 1083 applications, including 528 for its Community Bank scholarships.

“(We’re) seeing demand continue to grow and are pleased that we are able to ease the financial burden of further studies for students who might otherwise miss out on the opportunity,” she said.

“Bendigo Bank is proud to support an initiative that removes barriers to education particularly for regional, rural, Indigenous, and agricultural students.”

Pyramid Hill’s Mia Braun, who received a University Scholarship for regional and rural students, said she’s excited to commence her healthcare studies and intends to eventually bring her newfound skills back to rural Victoria.

“Receiving this scholarship is a game changer for me,” she said.

“It allows me to fully focus on my studies and work towards becoming the best occupational therapist I can be.

“After finishing university I want to play a part in bridging the gap between rural and metropolitan health services, ensuring that everyone in Victoria has equal access to great healthcare.”