RACQ CEO David Carter said building relationships in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and supporting their future leaders, was important to the Club and part of its Reconciliation Action Plan.

“We’re extremely excited to offer this scholarship to 10 students over the next five years to support them in their education, training and future careers,” Mr Carter said.

“We want to help contribute to improving the opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Townsville, and across Queensland.”

The scholarship would see two students per year receive $5,000 each to go towards their TAFE Qld studies.

TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Mary Campbell said scholarships will help cover the costs of course fees, text books and living expenses.

“We know the power vocational education has to change people’s lives and we want to help people fulfil their career potential regardless of their circumstances,” she said.

With an average of 600 applications received each year, Ms Campbell said she encouraged anyone looking to start their career or make a career change to apply now.

Students could apply now for the scholarship until 24 September by visiting scholarships.tafeqld.edu.au.