The Allan Labor Government is partnering with Victoria University to deliver more scholarships to students in Melbourne’s west, developing the young leaders of the future.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll announced the Labor Government would invest $100,000 towards the Western Chances Links Program for the next two years – backing Melbourne’s emerging leaders.
The Western Chances Links Program, which is funded by the Allan Labor Government and run in partnership between Western Chances and Victoria University, delivers tailor-made, merit based scholarships to financially disadvantaged young people in Melbourne’s western suburbs.
Scholarships are awarded to talented and motivated young people who have been recognised by their nominators, teachers, lecturers, and the wider community.
The program also offers a wide range of high quality and free educational, personal, and professional development opportunities outside school to eligible Western Chances scholarships recipients.
The Western Chances Links Program delivers 200 scholarships from 32 government schools annually and the new funding will ensure even more opportunities are offered to more young people.
Since 2006, Victoria University has collaborated with Western Chances to deliver initiatives that promote access and equity in education.
As stated by Minister for Education Ben Carroll
“Western Chances sends a powerful message to young people that the sky is their limit – encouraging them to take up leadership positions and develop their skills to represent and advocate for their communities.”
“We’re proud to support Western Chances for another two years as they undertake their important work to develop young leaders in the West.”
As stated by Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker
“The expanded space at Footscray Nicholson Campus will enable Western Chances staff, students and volunteers to really elevate their support of young people in the west of Melbourne.”
“VU is famous for providing the highest quality of equitable opportunities for all. We are delighted to continue this proud tradition with Western Chances now, tomorrow and into the future.”
As stated by Western Chances Founder and Chair Terry Bracks AM
“Through this Major Alliance, we are poised to create new opportunities for our young people and pave the way for increased access to education, skills, learning pathways, and employment.”
“At the heart of this partnership lies a deep-rooted belief in the power of education and our profound love for the west.”
