Away from Base program

Q: What kind of financial aid can I receive through the Away from Base program?

Eligible students may receive financial assistance to help cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and meals when their study location is more than 90 minutes away by public transport.

Q: How do I prove my eligibility for the Away from Base program?

To apply, you must provide proof of ABSTUDY eligibility, demonstrate that you live more than 90 minutes away from your study location by public transport, and be enrolled in a flexible delivery ABSTUDY-approved course. Additionally, you are required to agree to the Away from Base student Terms and Conditions.

Q: Who can help me with the enrolment process for the Away from Base program?

A dedicated Aboriginal Support Officer is available to guide you through the enrolment process at TAFE NSW and can assist with any questions you may have about the program. For support, please email us at awayfrombase@tafensw.edu.au .

The Away from Base program provides financial aid to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who need to travel for more than 90 minutes to reach their study location. The program is supported by the Australian Government.

Support is available

If you need to live or travel away from your home base to study, you may be eligible to have your training expenses covered. This may include costs associated with:

Travel
Accommodation
Meals

A dedicated Aboriginal Support Officer can guide you through your enrolment at TAFE NSW.

Enquire now

Older Aboriginal lady smiling for a picture

Who can apply?

To be eligible you need:

Proof of ABSTUDY eligibility
To live more than 90 minutes away from your study location (by available public transport)
To be enrolled in a flexible delivery ABSTUDY-approved course
To agree to the Away from Base student terms and conditions

The Carr brothers posing for a photo in blue overalls

Frequently asked questions

What kind of financial aid can I receive through the Away from Base program?

How do I prove my eligibility for the Away from Base program?

Who can help me with the enrolment process for the Away from Base program?

Note: Away from Base funding assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with study-related travel and accommodation expenses, but it doesn't cover traineeships or apprenticeships. If your employer supports your studies or your course doesn't require you to study away from home, this funding isn't applicable. Other funding options may be available.