More than 20 UniSC students are one step closer to achieving their higher education ambitions after receiving financial support through City of Moreton Bay’s 2026 Scholarship Program.

Established as a partnership between UniSC and the City of Moreton Bay in 2020, the program helps Moreton Bay students overcome financial barriers and pursue university study, while encouraging greater participation in higher education across the city.

UniSC Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett said supporting students through scholarships was an investment in the future, with scholarships playing a vital role in helping students access and succeed in higher education.

“As the City of Moreton Bay continues to grow, the demand for a highly skilled workforce will continue to increase across a range of industries,” Professor Bartlett said.

“Our partnership with the council enables us to support talented local students as they develop the skills, knowledge and experience they need to contribute to the city’s future prosperity.

“We look forward to seeing the impact this year’s recipients make both during their studies and throughout their careers.”

The annual program offers seven scholarships valued at $8,000 per year for the duration of an undergraduate degree, as well as up to 16 Study Support Bursaries worth $2,500 each for local students undertaking tertiary study.

This year, the program reached another significant milestone with the introduction of its first dedicated Indigenous Study Support Bursary.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the scholarships and bursaries represented an investment in both individual success and the city’s future workforce.

“Congratulations to this year’s seven scholarship recipients and 16 Study Support Bursary recipients,” Mayor Flannery said.

“These students have demonstrated commitment, determination and potential, and we’re proud to support them as they take the next step in their educational journey.

“Accessing university isn’t always easy, particularly when financial pressures come into play. Through this program, we’re helping to ease that burden so local students can focus on their studies and future careers.

“Since launching the initiative, we’ve supported nearly 100 students through their university degrees, creating opportunities that may not otherwise have been possible.

“We know that many recipients continue on to work in our city, helping to strengthen our local workforce and community.

“Recognising the growing cost-of-living pressures facing students, we've increased our bursaries from $2,000 to $2,500 this year, providing greater support to help recipients focus on their studies and achieve their goals.”