Pharmacy Daily | Rural student scholarship

NAPSA has announced that applications are now open for the NAPSA/LocumCo 2025 Rural Placement Scholarship.

The scholarship provides up to $1,000 to students, assisting them with the expenses associated with undertaking rural placements such as accommodation, travel and living expenses incurred.

The initiative takes place as NAPSA continues its fight to end placement poverty for pharmacy and other allied health students.

NAPSA National President Sebastian Harper spoke of the burden of placements, and how his organisation and LocumCo are delivering much-needed relief with this long-running joint initiative.

"We know, and have made the case to government, that students who undertake rural placement are more likely to take on a rural internship, and then go on to be registered pharmacists in rural and remote areas," Harper said.

"During a cost-of-living crisis where placements in general, but especially rural and remote placements, are increasing the financial burden on students, this NAPSA/LocumCo scholarship means we are continuing to strengthen the regional workforce," he added.

Sue Muller of LocumCo said, "The LocumCo Rural Placement Scholarship reflects our commitment to supporting future pharmacists and strengthening healthcare in rural Australia.

"By empowering students to gain hands-on experience in regional communities, we hope to inspire a lasting passion for rural pharmacy and the vital role it plays."

The first round of applications closes 27 Jun, with the scholarship aimed at students driven to improve the rural and remote healthcare landscape.