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Extension of allowances for professional Masters studies
The Australian Government will extend Youth Allowance and Austudy to
students enrolled in an approved Masters by course-work programme, which is
required for entry to a profession, or is the fastest pathway to
professional entry. This provision will also extend to students enrolled in
a Masters course-work programme where a university has diversified by
restructuring its course delivery.
The Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP
said the extension of Youth Allowance and Austudy for professional Masters
study is in response to a growing trend to increase the qualifications
required for professional entry.
The measure will start from 1 January 2008 at a cost of around $43
million over four years.
The Minister for Education, Science and Training will determine approved
courses on application by higher education providers.
Minister Bishop said the measure will also enhance Australia’s
international competitiveness, address Australia’s skill needs and
contribute to the nation’s skill development.
"This measure ensures that low income students have the financial
assistance they require to complete a Masters degree to obtain entry to a
profession."
"The Australian Government is committed to ensuring the development of
high level skills for all Australians, regardless of their location, age or
income," Minister Bishop said.
"It will assist students to acquire the skills and training they need for
careers which will, in turn, make a significant contribution to the
Australian economy."
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Media Contacts |
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| Minister Bishop’s Office: |
Tory Vidler |
0414 228 727 |
| Dept of Education, Science & Training: |
Virginia Cook |
0412 971 323 |
| Non-media queries: |
1300 363 079 |
Supporting Information
Why is this important?
There is an increasing trend to higher qualifications for
professional entry. It will also enhance Australia’s international
competitiveness.
It ensures that low income students have the financial assistance
they require to complete a professional qualification requiring a
Masters degree.
This Australian Government Budget initiative will extend Youth
Allowance and Austudy to students enrolled in an approved Masters by
course-work programme, which is required for entry to a profession, or
is the fastest pathway to professional entry. This provision will also
extend to students enrolled in a Masters course-work programme where a
university has diversified by restructuring its course delivery.
The Minister for Education, Science and Training will determine
approved courses on application by higher education providers.
This supports the Budget measure for increasing university
flexibility to use Commonwealth-supported places for Masters study by
coursework.
Who will benefit?
Students from low-income families and mature-age students
undertaking professional Masters-level courses will be the major
beneficiaries.
What funding is the Government committing to the initiative?
Around $43 million over a four year period.
What have we done in the past?
Income support for Masters-level students has not been available
before now.
A small number of professions have increased the minimum
requirement for entry to the profession to a Masters degree, or have
indicated an intention to do so. This measure would accommodate
those changes.
This measure also responds to changing university course
structures such as the new course structure being introduced at
Melbourne University, commencing in 2008. Other universities may
consider restructuring along similar lines.
Indigenous students receiving ABSTUDY already receive financial
support to undertake Masters-level study.
When will the initiative conclude?
The measure will be ongoing.
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