Woombye Community Bank Branch has officially launched a new scholarship program to help support local students in their academic endeavours.

Applications opened on the 23rd of August for the 2025 Secondary School and Tafe Scholarship Program, and Branch Manager, Hayley Saunders says it is an important initiative for the Branch to support local high school students.

“The Scholarships are available to academically motivated students in Years 10 and 11, whose financial or social circumstances might limit their progression into Years 11 and 12 (or TAFE equivalent), and potentially negatively impact their ongoing education and development,” she explained.

“The scholarships offered provide up to $1,000 per year for 2 years and funds may be used to help cover study related expenses such as accommodation costs, course costs, study-related materials and equipment, textbooks, tutoring and/or education related travel (within Australia).

“We recognise the importance of supporting our young people whose goals include academic study, and this scholarship program is a very practical way in which we can do this,” she said.

“Children should not be locked out of educational opportunities for financial reasons.”

Ms Saunders is appealing to school staff to spread the word amongst their student cohorts so that they are able to apply before the closing date on the 25th October. .

The following link, https://communitybankwoombye.smartygrants.com.au/2025SecondarySchoolScholarship gives further details of the scholarship criteria which includes student academic achievement, community involvement, leadership roles and details of their financial and/or social disadvantage.

“I encourage educators, parents or students to contact me on (07) 5442 1311 or at info@thebetterbank.com.au to discuss our scholarship program further,” Ms Saunders said.