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Children and grandchildren of Australian veterans will be encouraged to pursue tertiary education with the unveiling of the Downer Defence Veterans’ Family Scholarships.
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The three scholarships will help remove financial barriers for the families of Defence veterans and will be overseen by the Australian Veterans & Children Assistance Trust (AVCAT).
AVCAT manages tertiary education scholarships for the children and grandchildren of former service members.
The applications are open now and will close on 31 October 2024.
According to a statement from the company, the scholarships will be awarded based on financial need, academic potential and deservedness.
The initiative recognises the sacrifices of Australia’s Defence community, helping to remove the barriers to further education, David Morris, general manager, Downer Defence, said.
“As a business which has a significant veteran workforce of our own, we are aware of the impact that Defence service can have on a family, and we are pleased to be able to give back to this remarkable community.
“There is no greater gift than the gift of education, which is why we’ve partnered with the Australian Veteran’s Children Assistance Trust to provide three scholarships which will ease the financial burden of tertiary education, helping the children and grandchildren of Australian veterans to pursue full-time studies.
“We’re incredibly thankful for Downer’s 1200+ veteran employees and the considerable value and unique perspective they bring to our workforce. Through this program, we want to not only honour them, but all Australian veterans.”
Downer is a founding member of the Australian Veterans Employers Coalition, promoting veteran participation and wellbeing in the workforce.
The scholarships will support students undertaking full-time study at university, TAFE or registered training organisations within Australia.
Robyn Richardson, AVCAT scholarships manager, added: “Downer’s commitment expands our capacity to empower students pursuing tertiary education. This partnership demonstrates Downer's dedication to Australian veterans and enhances our ability to make a meaningful impact in the lives of veteran families.”
