The Allied Health Rural Generalist Program (Level 1) Scholarship is an exciting opportunity for new graduate and early-career allied health professionals working in rural and remote areas of New South Wales (NSW). Designed to equip healthcare professionals with the skills to meet the unique challenges of rural practice, this scholarship offers financial support for the completion of the Level 1 Allied Health Rural Generalist Program at James Cook University (JCU).
About the Scholarship
The scholarship offers financial assistance of up to $12,000, covering course fees, technology, and other expenses related to completing the Level 1 Rural Generalist Program. This scholarship is targeted at professionals working in NSW Health in Modified Monash Model (MM3–MM7) locations. It supports allied health professionals who are passionate about making a positive impact on rural communities through enhanced skills and training.
Eligible applicants include Occupational Therapists, Dietitians, Physiotherapists, Pharmacists, Podiatrists, Radiographers, Speech Pathologists, Psychologists, Exercise Physiologists, and Social Workers working in rural NSW Health Local Health Districts (LHDs).
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Allied Health Rural Generalist Program (Level 1) Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be in their first three years of rural practice in one of the listed allied health professions.
- Reside in a rural or remote area (MM3–MM7) in NSW, or work wholly in NSW Health while living in a border town.
- Hold a long-term employment contract (greater than 12 months) with a NSW Health LHD.
- Show proof of enrollment in the Level 1 Rural Generalist Program at JCU for the scholarship funds to be released.
- Declare any receipt of other scholarships over $3,000, if applicable.
- Express a strong commitment to improving health outcomes in rural NSW.
Scholarship Priorities
This scholarship is competitive, and priority is given to applicants who:
- Live and work in higher-priority rural and remote locations (MM3–MM7 on the Modified Monash Model).
- Identify as being of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander descent.
- Are part of small but essential rural health workforces.
- Demonstrate a strong intention to continue working in the rural NSW Health sector.
Application Process and Deadlines
The application process is straightforward:
- Complete the online application form: https://www.heti.nsw.gov.au/Placements-Scholarships-Grants/scholarships-and-grants/allied-health-rural-generalist-program-level-1-scholarship.
- Submit a support letter from your manager or supervisor using the provided template.
- Answer several key questions on your motivation for applying, how the course will benefit your rural community, and what service development project you wish to undertake during the program.
Key Dates:
- Scholarship Opens: 14 October 2024
- Application Deadline: 6 December 2024
- Notification of Outcome: By 15 December 2024
- Scholarship Payment Date: By 28 February 2025.