Your impact in action: supporting students through hardship
More than $100,000 has been raised by the La Trobe community to support students facing hardship, with bursaries now awarded to students across more than 20 disciplines.
La Trobe University’s annual Tax Appeal raised more than $100,000 this year, with funds donated to students experiencing financial hardship. This excellent result means that more students across La Trobe’s metro and regional campuses can focus on their education, instead of worrying where their next meal will come from. The appeal highlighted the financial pressures facing many students as rising living costs force difficult choices between rent, food, transport and study expenses.
So far, 96 bursaries of $1,000 each have been awarded, with funds going directly into the hands of deserving students. Further bursaries will be awarded in subsequent rounds.
La Trobe believes in making university accessible for all, and that’s why student support is a central pillar of the Make Your Impact campaign. More than a fundraising goal – Make Your Impact is a call to invest in the people, ideas and solutions shaping a healthier, smarter and fairer Australia.
In their own words, here's what community support has meant to some of the first bursary recipients.
"Returning to study with a young family has been a huge financial sacrifice, and every dollar helps. Thank you for supporting my education journey – it will not go unnoticed."
— Sarah, Bachelor of Nursing, Bendigo
"I never thought I'd be able to go to university growing up... This bursary will really help to ease the pressure and allow me to focus more on my studies. I am so grateful that there are people like you who invest in students like me."
— Sera, Bachelor of Arts, Bundoora
"As a mature-age student and father of six, balancing family responsibilities with full-time study can be impossible at times. Your generosity will help make the impossible more possible."
— Adam, Bachelor of Arts, Bundoora
"Knowing that people are willing to support students through their education is truly inspiring, and one day I want to do the same because it makes a genuine difference in students' lives."
— Pamiru, Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours), Bendigo
To everyone who donated, championed the appeal or encouraged others to get involved, thank you. Your support will have a lasting impact, helping students overcome financial barriers and continue their education with confidence.
Support more students in need
We know that a university degree can create generational change for our students – but it also helps develop the workforce in critical disciplines like nursing.
Through donor support, we can ensure that a university degree is within reach for every student who wants to learn.