Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have any advice when applying for a scholarship?

Read all of the application form before commencing it. Preferably type or use a computer to complete your application. Re-read your application thoroughly. Errors and poor writing have a negative impact.

Applications should include a statement saying how you meet the selection criteria - you may use dot points if you wish. You may include a copy of your HSC and/or Uni/college results. Irrelevant information should not be included. If you have a personal resume it may give you a good idea of what you can include in your application eg: relevant jobs you’ve done or community issues you’ve been involved in.

Who should I include as a referee?

Your referees should be people who know you well and can support your application. It may be a lecturer or someone from a volunteer group you have helped or someone you have worked for in a relevant industry. Preferably they should be someone who knows you well enough to comment on your skills and knowledge as they relate to the selection criteria.

Do I have to work for the Western CMA if I get a scholarship?

Yes, you will be expected to work with us for at least four weeks (twenty working days) each year during your studies. This does not have to be a four week block but can be spread over the year to fit in with your study timetable. In addition to your scholarship we will pay you at an applicable rate for this time and we may contribute to travel and other expenses depending on your circumstances.

What are the tax implications of receiving a scholarship?

It is up to the individual to arrange their own tax returns. The Western CMA will not withold any taxation from your scholarship payment but will withold income tax at PAYE rates on income paid to you when you work for the Western CMA.

Do I have to work for the Western CMA at the end of my degree?

Yes, at the end of your successful studies you will then be expected to work for the WCMA for at least half the period of your scholarship. For example, if you gain a three year scholarship we would expect you to work with us for a year and a half.

Where will I be expected to work?

This is negotiable but anywhere within the Western Catchment. The WCMA has four office locations in the Catchment - Bourke, Cobar, Broken Hill and Walgett. You may also be expected to work in the field with our staff.

What if I don’t quite meet all the selection criteria?

The selection committee may relax some criteria if it is felt that the applicant has merit, even if not all criteria are strictly met. Contact the General Manager on 02 6841 2740 to discuss your case.

What happens if my circumstances change?

Applicants are expected to fulfil the requirements of the scholarship under all reasonable circumstances. However, there may be a variety of reasons why it becomes impractical for an applicant or the Western CMA to continue with the scholarship, either during study or the following term of employment. In this eventuality each case would be reviewed by the WCMA and may result in the loss of the scholarship, a request for a refund or the Western CMA may release you from the contract – any course of action would depend on the individual circumstances.

What happens if I fail my course or can’t fulfil my work obligations?

In the eventuality that the applicant fails some or all of their coursework, or is unable to complete required work commitments, the Western CMA will review the case. Action from this review will depend on the individual circumstances. The Western CMA may request the repayment of scholarship funds depending on the situation.

Where do I send my application?

Complete all sections of the application form and attach relevant details of how you meet the selection criteria. Send your applications to:

Western CMA Scholarship
PO Box 307
Cobar NSW 2835

or fax to 02 6836 2988

or e-mail to western@cma.nsw.gov.au.
Applications that are e-mailed should either be in Word or Word compatible format.