Applications for the Sure Start UTAS Scholarship for 2026 are now open for study commencing in Semester 1, 2026.
The Scholarship is supported by DECYP and the University of Tasmania. It provides up to $20,000 ($5,000 per year up to 4 years) to young people who have experienced out-of-home care in Tasmania to pursue their education endeavours.
Young people can apply if they are under the age of 24 and studying any degree, University Preparation Program, or Diploma of University Studies at the University of Tasmania.
Several students have already benefited from the Sure Start Scholarship. They are now studying or have qualifications in nursing, paramedicine, social work, and psychology.
A key part of Sure Start is the Learner Wellbeing Fund. This provides practical supports such as laptops, driving lessons, literacy tuition, and vocational and university education opportunities. These are designed to improve education and wellbeing outcomes for children and young people in out-of-home care.
Applications for the 2026 scholarship close 31 January 2026. For details on eligibility and how to apply, visit the University’s Sure Start Scholarship webpage or email sure.start@decyp.tas.gov.au. To learn more about the framework of Sure Start, visit the DECYP Sure Start webpage.