CWA medical grant invests in the future of rural healthcare

STUDENTS from across the region are being encouraged to apply for the 2026 CWA Barwon Group medical grant, a long-running initiative that has distributed more than $300,000 to local students pursuing health-related careers since 1998.

Applications for the 2026 grant round are now open.

The grant provides valuable support to students undertaking tertiary and vocational studies in a wide range of health and allied health disciplines.

Established by the CWA Barwon Group Medical Grant Committee in 1998, the grant was created to assist local students with the costs associated with health-related study while encouraging graduates to return to their rural roots and contribute to the future of healthcare in regional communities.

Barwon Group medical grant convenor Jocelyn Cameron said the grant continues to make a meaningful difference to local students and their families.

“Many of our students must leave home to pursue their studies, often facing significant expenses associated with university, TAFE and professional placements,” Mrs Cameron said.

“The Barwon Group Medical Grant is about more than financial assistance. It is a way for local communities to show their support, encouragement and confidence in the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Since its establishment, the grant has supported more than 70 local students, many of whom have received funding across multiple years while completing their studies.

Wee Waa’s Caitlin Kable, a former grant recipient, is encouraging other local students to apply.

“The CWA grant made a significant difference during my placement in Taree last year by helping to cover accommodation and travel expenses,” she said.

“This financial support reduced the stress associated with placement costs and allowed me to focus more on my studies and learning opportunities rather than needing to work extra hours.

“I would strongly encourage other students to apply for CWA grants because even small amounts of support can make a big difference.

“Placements, travel, accommodation, and study related expenses can quickly add up, particularly for students from rural areas.

“The support provided by the CWA helps ease this burden and allowed me to make the most of the opportunities available.

“I am very grateful for the assistance I received and would encourage others to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity.

Caitlin is in her second year of studying a Bachelor of Occupational Therapy at the University of Newcastle.

“I am absolutely loving it,” she said.

“It is currently the winter break, so I have taken the opportunity to study abroad. I have just completed a two-week summer program at Leeds University in England, where I studied Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes: An Introduction.

“It was a fantastic experience that allowed me to broaden my knowledge, meet people from different backgrounds and gain a global perspective on healthcare.

“I chose occupational therapy because I am passionate about helping people maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. I love that it allows me to work with people across all stages of life.

“Growing up in a rural community, I have seen first-hand the challenges people can face when accessing healthcare services.

“In the future, I hope to work in a rural or regional area, where I can give back to communities and help improve access to allied health services.”

The grant is available to students whose principal place of residence is within the Barwon CWA Group area, encompassing the Burren Junction, Collarenebri, Goodooga/Lightning Ridge, Pilliga, Rowena, Walgett and Wee Waa CWA branches.

Students studying medicine, nursing, pharmacy, physiotherapy, podiatry, speech pathology, social work, chiropractic, orthotics, natural health studies and other recognised health-related fields are encouraged to apply.

Eligible applicants include undergraduate and TAFE students who have completed at least six months of study in their first year or higher and intend to continue their studies in 2027. The grant is also open to postgraduate students and those updating or adding to existing qualifications.

Mrs Cameron said supporting local students was an investment in the long-term health and wellbeing of rural communities.

“Rural communities understand the importance of having access to quality healthcare services,” she said.

“By helping local students pursue their studies today, we are investing in the healthcare workforce our communities will rely on tomorrow.”

Each year, the grant is made possible through the generosity of local businesses, community organisations, sporting and service clubs, CWA branches and individual donors who recognise the importance of supporting education and healthcare outcomes in western NSW.

Applications close on Friday 4 September.

For application forms, guidelines or further information, see classifieds or contact Jocelyn Cameron, Barwon Group medical grant convenor, on [email protected]