SHCF Launches Southern Highlands Education & Apprenticeship Fund to Support Local Youth
Young people across the Southern Highlands will have greater support to pursue education, training and career opportunities with the launch of the new Southern Highlands Education & Apprenticeship Fund (SHEAF).
Established by the Southern Highlands Community Foundation (SHCF), SHEAF has been created to inspire and support young people aged 16–25 to pursue tertiary and vocational education. SHEAF will provide financial assistance to eligible local students undertaking university degrees, TAFE courses and apprenticeships.
2026 SHEAF pathways:
- McLean University Scholarship
A $12,000 per year scholarship for three years, supporting essential living expenses associated with university study, including accommodation, travel and technology needs. - Apprenticeship Grants
One-off grants of $500–$5,000 will support new and existing apprentices with practical costs associated with their training pathway, including tools, equipment, travel and IT requirements.
This initiative has been made possible through the generosity of Paula and Rob McLean, who established the first SHEAF University Scholarship and the commitment of SHCF Board Directors, who contributed the initial funds for the apprenticeship grant program.
Andy Skidmore, Chair of the SHCF Grants Committee, said SHEAF represents an important investment in the future of young people across the Southern Highlands.
“SHEAF is an incredible opportunity for young people in our region to further their education and pursue their ambitions. It removes some of the barriers that can stand in the way of talented young people reaching their potential – whether that’s financial pressure or simply not knowing what opportunities are available.
“Every young person in the Southern Highlands deserves the opportunity to realise their potential, regardless of their postcode or circumstances. SHEAF is a practical way for our community to back its own and create pathways across a range of tertiary education and training options.
“SHEAF is the Southern Highlands stepping up to support our young people, and I couldn’t be prouder to see the Foundation leading this initiative.”
Applications open 30 July 2026 and close on 30 September 2026.
SHEAF is open to eligible young people aged 16–25 who live in the Southern Highlands and are considering a university study or apprenticeship pathway. The institution or training provider does not need to be based in the Southern Highlands.
Applicants will be notified as to whether their application has been successful at the end of October, with successful recipients announced in November.
More information about SHEAF grants, eligibility criteria and the application process is available at here.
Through SHEAF, the Southern Highlands Community Foundation is investing not only in individual students but in the long-term prosperity of the region. By supporting access to education and training, the initiative aims to help develop the skilled professionals and tradespeople needed for the community to thrive.
