xThe NSW Government’s Youth Development Scholarship program is now accepting applications, offering $1,000 grants to 1,500 high school and tertiary students living in social housing to help cover education-related expenses. The program, now in its tenth year, demonstrates the Minns Labor Government’s commitment to supporting the academic and career aspirations of young people in public, community, or Aboriginal housing.
Since its launch in 2017, the program has invested over $13 million, supporting more than 5,700 students. These grants help ease the financial burden of education, enabling young people to thrive at school, complete their studies, and transition confidently into the workforce. Scholarships are available to high school students in years 10 to 12, TAFE or university students, as well as those completing apprenticeships or traineeships.
This year, 1,500 scholarships will be awarded, including 1,000 for new students and 500 for returning recipients. Eligible applicants include those receiving private rental subsidies from the Department of Communities and Justice, living in community or Aboriginal housing, supported or temporary accommodation, or statutory or voluntary out-of-home care. The grants can be used for study essentials such as laptops, textbooks, and internet access.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson emphasized that the scholarships relieve financial pressures for families in social housing, ensuring students can access the resources they need to succeed academically. Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan highlighted that post-school training will be essential for most future jobs, and the scholarships provide critical support to help students complete their education and enter the workforce.
Youth Development Scholarship recipients, like Caitlyn Laws, have shared how the program has been instrumental in overcoming financial and social challenges. Scholarships provide not only financial support but also mentoring, helping students remain focused, engaged, and resilient in their studies, ultimately fostering academic success and professional achievement.
Applications for high school students close on 13 February 2026, while tertiary student applications close on 6 March 2026. Further information on applying is available at the Department of Communities and Justice website.
