A new not-for-profit organisation is aiming to make it easier for students in the Murray Mallee to pursue further education, with grants now available for those heading to TAFE, university or other training providers.
The Country Education Foundation of Murray Mallee is offering grants of between $500 and $2,000 to help students with costs such as travel, relocation, accommodation, textbooks, technology, tools, uniforms and other study expenses.
Chair Jen Carey started the local chapter with her husband Rod Carey, after discovering there was a need for more support for young people from regional areas.
She said the idea came after hearing about the challenges faced by a young person wanting to study away from home.
“I was having a brief discussion one morning with our grandson and he was explaining the difficulties his friend was having in relocating to Adelaide – finding it very difficult financially and so I did a little bit of research and came across the Country Education Foundation of Australia and that set us on our path.”
Committee member Roxanne Rowland said she had seen first-hand the barriers some students face when trying to follow their ambitions.
“One of my passions has been working in secondary education across the technical trades as well as the universities and from a very, very early stage I had students come to me who had aspirations but weren’t able to necessarily finance themselves.”
“A student’s location shouldn’t drive their aspirations.”
The grants are open to eligible students aged 16 to 25 who live in, or have attended school in, Murray Bridge and surrounding areas, can demonstrate financial need and are committed to completing their qualification.
Jen Carey said even a small amount of assistance could make a significant difference.
“Five hundred dollars might not sound like much, but it might be tools for an apprentice or work boots and a uniform.”
The first grants will be awarded next year, with applications open until 31 October 2026.
“We will have an interview panel in November, and in December the awardees will be notified and we will have a public presentation ceremony at the end of the year,” Ms Carey said.
The Country Education Foundation of Murray Mallee is also calling on more individuals and businesses to support the initiative through donations.
Donations made during September 2026 will be matched by CEF Orange, helping increase the support available to local students.
The foundation says successful applicants will also have access to support programs, professional networks and future funding opportunities.
Applications and donations can be made through cef.org.au/foundations/murray-mallee.
