Student Hardship Fund
La Trobe’s unwavering commitment to student success ensures that all students find a sense of belonging and opportunity here. We have a reputation for serving demographic groups who are the least likely to attend university including Indigenous, ‘second chance’, immigrant and first-in-family learners.
Our strategic regional campuses provide access to students who live outside metro Melbourne – where almost 50% of students are the first people in their families to go to university.
Disadvantaged groups hit the hardest
But, as a matter of course, the demands of university can hit these students the hardest. Students from low-income or other underrepresented groups are already balancing their study alongside part-time jobs, carer and family responsibilities.
Coupled with a cost-of-living crisis that’s impacting all Australians – some students are struggling to afford essentials like groceries and fuel. They’re rent-stressed, skipping meals, and living below the poverty line.
Empowering students to continue their studies
To address this crisis, La Trobe is increasing the value of bursaries and making more money available to students through initiatives like the Student Hardship Fund.
The Fund provides $1,000 payments to students who experience financial or educational disadvantage. A gift to the Student Hardship Fund means that students can stop worrying about basic costs like travel, rent and meals. Your gift empowers students from all walks of life to focus on building a brighter future.