Apply now for a Barker Maritime Scholarship

The Barker Maritime Scholarship was set up in 2008 by the late Don Barker and the Barker family. It's designed to encourage employees already working in the maritime industry to pursue further education through professional development at TAFE NSW. This single scholarship is valued at $10,000

Australia is the largest island continent on earth, so its maritime industry needs to be diverse, enduring, competitive, and sustainable to support its economic growth. Consider this scholarship to enhance your skills in a strategically important industry that offers dynamic opportunities.

Applications for the Barker Maritime Scholarship close 5 pm (AEST), Friday 12 September 2025.

To apply for the Barker Martime Scholarship applicants must:

• be an employee of an organisation that utilises the Port of Newcastle,
• be committed to achieving their career goals, · demonstrate an aptitude for the industry,
• seek the support of their employer before applying for the scholarship, and their employer must supply a supporting statement for the applicant,
• have the intention of completing a course of study at TAFE NSW, that will assist in advancing their career in the maritime industry e.g. a traditional maritime course, business, accounting or WHS course,
• be a resident of the Hunter Region or Central Coast.

Please note that the applicant cannot hold another scholarship for the same course and must not have received a scholarship from the Hunter TAFE Foundation for one year before 12 September 2025.

Download and complete the application form. Please ensure you sign the declaration and collect all relevant supporting documents. Finally, email a copy of your application form and supporting documents to hunter.foundation@tafensw.edu.au

Please remember that TAFE NSW offers multiple support services to students, including free counselling services. We understand that sharing your personal or financial circumstances may be emotionally challenging, so please don’t hesitate to access these services if you need support.

You can arrange an appointment with a counsellor by phoning 131 601 and selecting option five, then option 2. You can also use this option to access disability services or referral to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student support services.

Learn more about the resources available to you on the Student Services homepage.

Every year TAFE NSW awards hundreds of scholarships. To find the one that's right for you, go to the TAFE NSW Scholarships homepage.