Apply now for a NSW Rural and Regional Mental Health Scholarship

Where you choose to live shouldn’t limit your access to education or career opportunities.

The NSW Rural and Regional Mental Health Scholarship supports rural and regional human services staff and/or volunteers in NSW to pursue mental health studies. It is designed to help you gain the qualifications needed for more impactful roles in community rehabilitation, support, and mental health intake.

Scholarship Value & Availability

In Semester 2, 2026, three scholarships are available, each valued at up to $3,000.

Funds can be used for study, living, or other course-related expenses, including:

• Travel costs
• Technology expenses
• Leave without pay (LWOP) support.

Applications for the NSW Rural and Regional Mental Health Scholarship close 11:59 pm (AEST) Sunday, 6 September 2026.

To apply for the NSW Rural and Regional Mental Health Scholarship, you must:

• be enrolled in and studying the Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) at TAFE NSW
• be currently employed and/or volunteering in a human services role (clinical or non-clinical) in a rural or regional area.
• meet the Smart and Skilled eligibility criteria (aged 15 or older, living or working in NSW, and an Australian citizen, permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder, or New Zealand citizen)
• have permission from a parent or legal guardian if you are under 18 years of age
• not have received a scholarship from TAFE NSW, the ITSA Scholarships Program, or the Hunter TAFE Foundation in the last 12 months

Note: If a parent or legal guardian is unavailable to provide permission, please email SEPscholarships@tafensw.edu.au to discuss your options.

For further details, please refer to the NSW Rural and Regional Mental Health Scholarship Terms and Conditions [PDF, 105 KB].

If you have any questions about the scholarship, please email scholarships@tafensw.edu.au.

TAFE NSW offers a range of support services for students, including free and confidential counselling.

We understand that sharing your personal or financial circumstances can be emotionally challenging, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you need support.

To arrange an appointment with a counsellor, call 131 601 and select Option 5, then Option 2.

You can also use this number to access Disability Services or request a referral to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander student support.

For more information on the resources available to you, visit the Student Services homepage.

Every year, TAFE NSW awards hundreds of scholarships and study grants.

To find the one that is right for you, visit the TAFE NSW Scholarships homepage.