Applications for a Bert Evans Scholarship from the NSW Government are open until May 30.

Goulburn MP Pru Goward encouraged employers and training providers to nominate candidates for one of 50 scholarships offered each year.

“Fifty scholarships worth $5000 a year for three years are awarded to country apprentices, Aboriginal apprentices, women undertaking non-traditional trades and apprentices with a disability,” she said.

“An apprenticeship is a great way to kick-start a career, and apprentices are vital to the state’s growth. However it’s not always easy to complete a trade qualification when experiencing financial hardship.

“We recognise many apprentices are doing it tough, particularly those who have to live away from home or do not have their family around them to offer support.”

The scholarships are named after the late Bert Evans, who was a distinguished advocate of the VET sector for more than 30 years.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Skills, Small Business and Regional NSW, John Barilaro, said the Bert Evans Scholarships were awarded to apprentices who demonstrated a high aptitude for vocational education and training and a positive attitude in the workplace.

“Some apprentices are the sole supporters of their family and have difficulty buying tools for their trade. Others are travelling hundreds of kilometres to attend formal training,” he said.

“The Bert Evans Scholarship could make all the difference for an apprentice doing it tough and help to get them on the path to a fulfilling and sustainable career.”

For more Information and to apply, visit www.training.nsw.gov.au