The Rudd Labor Government today delivered on its commitment to double the number of postgraduate scholarships available to higher degree research students by 2012.
The Scholarships for a Competitive Future – Postgraduate Scholarships initiative will result in many more higher degree research students receiving support for their living costs while undertaking a research degree.
The Government is acting to build Australia's capability by increasing the research capacity in our universities, so that Australia can stay ahead in an increasingly competitive global economy.
This initiative will increase the total number of Australian Postgraduate Award (APA) holders from around 4,800 to nearly 10,000 by 2012.
The APA scheme provides block grants to eligible higher education providers in support of their training of research students. APA scholarships are awarded by institutions to students of exceptional research potential undertaking a PhD or Masters by research degree, to assist with students' general living costs.
We need to ensure that our best and brightest students are encouraged to go on to higher degrees if they have an interest in research, and APAs will help achieve this. Unfortunately, under the previous Government, the number of APAs made available failed to keep pace with Australia's growing need for highly skilled workers.
The Government is committed to an Education Revolution – from early childhood to higher education - doubling the number of APAs is a key part of that commitment.
Media contact: Catriona Jackson, Minister's Office, 0417 142 238