We know that rising living costs — including fuel — may be making it harder for some students to get to campus or manage day to day expenses. If you’re feeling the impact, La Trobe may be able to support you with our services, financial bursaries and scholarships available to ease financial pressures for students.
Financial support
Industry Placement Bursary – $1,100
For domestic and international students who have a confirmed placement in InPlace (minimum 70-hour placement).
- Placement starting between 1 Jan – 30 Apr 2026
- Applications assessed early May 2026
Placement Travel Bursary – $680–$1,365
For domestic and international students who have a confirmed placement in InPlace (minimum 10 placement days) and travel more than 120km one way from their term address.
- Placement starting between 1 Jan – 30 Apr 2026
- Applications assessed early May 2026
Access Bursary – $1,000
For domestic students experiencing financial hardship, difficult circumstances or a medical condition.
- Applications open May 2026, paid after Semester 2 Census date
Disaster Relief Bursary – $500
For any students affected by a currently recognised disaster (e.g. floods, bushfires).
- Same-day assessment, next-day payment
Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) – $338.60 per week
For domestic students in Education, Nursing, Midwifery or Social Work who have mandatory placement averaging more than 30 hours per week; are receiving Income support; or are meeting the ‘Need to Work’ test.
- Applications should be submitted close to placement start date
Wellbeing, academic and financial advice
La Trobe has a number of other services that can help including:
Financial support and advice
You can access free financial counselling through the University’s Wellbeing Services. Financial counsellors can help you explore options, manage short-term financial stress, and connect you with relevant assistance. Our Counsellors are available virtually, by phone or in person.
Academic and practical help
Student Advising can help connect you with financial counselling, guide you to scholarships or bursaries, and support you with academic or personal concerns that may be affected by travel or financial pressures.
Wellbeing and mental health support
A range of free mental health and wellbeing services are available to support you during challenging times.
After hours mental health and wellbeing support
If you need support outside business hours, the La Trobe University Crisis Line is available: Call: 1300 146 307 or Text: 0488 884 100
(5pm–9am on weekdays and 24/7 on weekends. Closed public holidays and university closure dates).
Food Relief
La Trobe offers support to students who are experiencing hardship and may require food aid, and referral to services in local communities. Food relief services are available to you on campus or in your local community.
If you’re unsure where to start, Student Advising or Wellbeing Services can help point you in the right direction with confidential advice and support.
La Trobe is continuing to monitor the rising cost of living and may make additional services available.