NSW healthcare students are to receive millions of dollars in financial support in a bid to attract and retain talent in the State’s public health system.
Announced by Premier Chris Minns, $97 million has been allocated for 2,000 annual scholarships to support up to 850 nurses, 400 medical graduates, 150 midwives, and a range of other important roles such as paramedics, Aboriginal health practitioners and allied health professionals in areas such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
“Students undertaking a healthcare degree will be eligible for a subsidy on their study expenses, if they commit to working a minimum of five years in the NSW public health system,” Mr Minns said.
“Starting from 1 January 2024, 2,000 students will be eligible to apply for a $12,000 study subsidy, $4,000 a year for three years,” he said.
He said applications for the new subsidy would be prioritised based on specific health professions and particular locations of need in NSW.
Minister for Health, Ryan Park said the package would help train the paramedics, nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals needed to begin the work to repair the State’s hospital system.
“Those already studying before the scheme starts can make the same commitment to working a minimum of five years in the NSW public health system and access a one off payment of $8,000 when they graduate,” Mr Park said.
“This transition scheme will be available to another 2,000 students each year, for the next three years.”
