The Queensland Government has opened the first round of the new Supporting Women Scholarships, aimed at assisting women to enter traditionally male dominated industries.

 

The first round will see 500 scholarships of up to $20,000 be made available over four years for women who wish to study subjects in male dominated industries and go on to work in those fields.

 

“These scholarships help address Queensland’s skills needs and will give more Queensland women the chance to work in agricultural science, architecture, engineering, geological science, building services and information technology,” State Minister for Education John-Paul Langbroek said.

 

“Women who are just finishing school, women looking to change careers and women who are out of the workforce and returning to study are all eligible to apply.

 

“With scholarships available to support study from Certificate IV through to postgraduate level, both professional and semi-professional pathways are an option. 


“To be eligible for a scholarship, applicants will need to also apply for study through the QTAC process and gain a place in one of the designated fields of study. 


“Winners will be able to use the scholarship money to offset costs associated with study, such as fees, textbooks and course materials.” 


Applications will close on 12 October 2012 for scholarships starting at the beginning of the 2013 academic year. Recipients will be notified in December 2012. 


Mr Langbroek said the selection committee for the scholarship program would consider merit, future potential and need. 


The selection committee includes former Macarthur Coal CEO Nicole Hollows, the first female Australian Rhodes Scholar Dr Beth Woods, Queensland Chief Scientist Dr Geoff Garrett AO and the National Vice President of National Association of Women in Construction, Radmila Desic. 



It is chaired by Skills Queensland CEO Rod Camm. 



To apply for a Supporting Women Scholarship go to

http://www.skills.qld.gov.au/Supporting-Women.aspx