Murdoch University has, from its foundation in 1974, been a university of difference. It has always been associated with social justice and inclusion and providing pathways into and through a university education for people who had previously been excluded.

Due to geographical constraints, a group that continue to face challenges regarding access to tertiary education are students living in regional areas of WA. As Murdoch embarks on celebrating our 50^th anniversary later this year, we continue to open pathways into higher education for people facing unique challenges.

We’re excited to continue our support for a special initiative - 50 scholarships in celebration of our 50 years, which assists future students who live in a regional or remote (including First Nations students) area of Western Australia. It has been designed to help offset relocation and related costs in the first year of their undergraduate degree.

Launched at the end of 2023, we’ve received donations from our alumni to support three  scholarships, with an ongoing goal to raise more than $250,000 for these rural-based students. We will shortly share with you the personal stories of the first three recipients, and outline how the generosity of our alumni family has opened the doors of opportunity for them.

With the increased cost of living and an ever-challenging rental market in Perth, pressures our rural students face have only increased, making it even more important for us to try to maintain their pathway to life-changing higher education.  

If you would like to show your support and donate before the end of this financial year, you can find out more here. 

(Feature pic shows George Alexander Foundation scholarship recipient Hayley Hills)