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Great Lakes Education Fund was established to provide financial assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post-high school education, training and vocation aspirations.
We recognise that the cost of regional students pursuing further education and training is often much higher than their metropolitan counterparts and that sometimes, these costs can be prohibitive.
With this in mind, Great Lakes fundraises throughout the year to provide financial grants to celebrate the aspirations of our local youth and help them achieve their goals.
Great Lakes Education Fund was established to provide financial assistance and support to local youth to help them achieve their post-high school education, training and vocation aspirations.
We recognise that the cost of regional students pursuing further education and training is often much higher than their metropolitan counterparts and that sometimes, these costs can be prohibitive.
With this in mind, Great Lakes fundraises throughout the year to provide financial grants to celebrate the aspirations of our local youth and help them achieve their goals.
Our impact
since 2011
207
Students Supported
$445,650
In Financial Support
Our local grants
Local grants are provided to enable rural and regional youth to continue their education and training post high school, whether that’s university study, a trade, a diploma or certificate, or an apprenticeship.
Local grant funds are given as reimbursements to cover educational expenses like textbooks, travel, laptops, accommodation, tools, uniforms and other study related costs.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for a grant from Great Lakes you:
• Are aged between 16-25;
• Live or went to school in the Great Lakes footprint;
• Can demonstrate need; and,
• Show commitment to achieving your goal.
After applications close, the committee will review all applications.
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview, with grants allocations based on the application and interview.
The CEF Extra Program provides additional scholarships funded by generous donors, corporate and philanthropic partners.
When you receive a local grant, you may be nominated for a CEF Extra scholarship.
Student FAQs
Which postcodes meet the eligibility criteria?
If you lived or attended school in 2428, you are eligible to apply for a grant from Great Lakes.
What local schools are covered by the foundation?
Our local area schools
Is there an age criteria?
You must be between the ages of 16 and 25.
Your obligations
When you receive a CEF grant, you agree to the following obligations:
Notify CEF if any of your circumstances change. This includes contact or enrolment details.
Report to CEF every six months (mid and end of year).
Where possible, assist with and attend local foundation fundraising and promotional events.
Mid and End of Year Progress Reports
As part of receiving a grant, you will need to report to Great Lakes and the CEF national office every six months on how you are progressing, how the grant has assisted you and provide your marks/grades for the semester if applicable. You will receive an email asking you to fill out an online form for mid-year and end-of-year progress reports.
How do I claim funds?
We do not provide cash grants directly to grant recipients. Great Lakes reimburses you for a pre-agreed expense or pays for the goods and services directly to the provider.
You cannot be reimbursed for more funds or spend more money than you have been allocated in any financial year.
Please contact our Treasurer if you have questions about claiming funds.
Send us an email
CEF Connect Program
When you receive a CEF scholarship or grant, you automatically become a member of the CEF family.
Membership is free and opens up a range of benefits from mentoring and networking opportunities to speaker events.
See more about the CEF Connect Program here.
Can I apply again next year?
Grants are given on an annual basis, so you need to apply each year for funding. Keep an eye on the open and close dates of your foundation.
Our Great Lakes Team
Great Lakes Education Fund is run by a committee of enthusiastic local volunteers. If you would like to get involved, volunteer or donate, please reach out to us.
Our Great Lakes Supporters
Our work in Great Lakes is made possible thanks to the support of generous individuals, local businesses and groups.
They help us continue our work to support local students.
Our local scholarships
Thanks to the support of local donors, we also offer the following scholarships.
What our Great Lakes students & volunteers say
Without a doubt, I would not have done as well as I have if it had not been for the assistance of CEF and GLEF. I am extremely grateful to be supported by such a great organisation so close to home.
Bronsun
BACHELOR OF MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING | UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
I'm so thankful for the Great Lakes Education Fund and CEF for the support and to my local community that stood behind me.
Saul
BACHELOR OF COMMERCE | UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Without a doubt, I would not have done as well as I have if it had not been for the assistance of CEF and GLEF. I am extremely grateful to be supported by such a great organisation so close to home.
Bronsun
BACHELOR OF MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING | UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE
I'm so thankful for the Great Lakes Education Fund and CEF for the support and to my local community that stood behind me.
Saul
BACHELOR OF COMMERCE | UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Great Lakes News
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Standout students and alumni celebrated at the 2025 Audi Foundation–CEF Alumni Awards
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Belief in education the foundation of new three-year partnership
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Students say thank you
