Tertiary Access Payment (TAP)

The Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) is aimed at easing the financial pressure faced by students from regional and remote areas who need to relocate to attend Swinburne University of Technology. It is supported by the Australian Government and delivered via the university's own scholarship channels. The purpose of TAP is to encourage more country students to continue their education after finishing year 12, especially when higher education opportunities aren't available in their local area.

Focus on Access and Transition

TAP is not based on academic merit but rather on where you live, recent completion of Year 12 (or equivalent), and your plans to enter full-time university study straight after school. The application process is distinct from other scholarships: selection is tied to your home address, and whether you need to move away to study. With a special focus on helping students adapt socially and financially in their first year away from family, the payment helps cover costs like accommodation, travel, and basic living expenses when getting set up in a new city or town.

Who Should Consider TAP?

This scholarship suits recent school leavers from outer regional, remote, or very remote areas (check your address using the Australian Statistical Geography Standard Remoteness Areas map). It's a suitable option if you're heading straight into a bachelor's degree or a higher qualification at Swinburne after high school. TAP can be combined with other support, such as Youth Allowance and some academic scholarships, but check the regulations for full compatibility.

If you are an international student, TAP does not apply. If you want to study in Australia and need a Confirmation of Enrolment for a student visa (subclass 500), you'll need to look into other scholarship options tailored for overseas students. TAP is meant for Australian citizens and permanent residents. Always verify latest details, as TAP is updated from time to time according to government policy. See Swinburne's official scholarships page for more and use your home postcode to check eligibility.

• Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Completed Year 12 (or equivalent) at a regional or remote school
• Home address in an outer regional, remote, or very remote area (as defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics)
• Enrolled (or planning to enrol) full time in your first undergraduate course at Swinburne University straight after finishing school
• Need to relocate from your regional/remote home to study (cannot live at home during study)
• Not already receive other Tertiary Access Payment or similar relocation assistance
• Not taking a gap year between Year 12 completion and starting university

• Financial payment to support costs of relocating and living for your first year of study (the exact amount may change, so check the official site)
• Flexibility to use funds toward rent, bond, groceries, furniture, transport, or initial set-up expenses
• Does not affect eligibility for Youth Allowance or some other scholarships (confirm with Services Australia and Swinburne before applying)
• Payment is made directly to the student after enrolment is confirmed and move is verified

• Review eligibility: Check if your home address qualifies as outer regional, remote, or very remote using the Australian Bureau of Statistics tool.
• Apply to Swinburne: Submit your application for your desired course at Swinburne and accept your offer (if successful).
• Claim TAP: Go to the Services Australia website or Swinburne scholarships portal and search for TAP. Use your Centrelink online account or the Swinburne system to apply, depending on instructions provided that year.
• Submit required documents: Prepare evidence of your home address, school completion, and university enrolment. You may need to show proof of relocation or residency change.
• Check for updates: Monitor your Centrelink account or Swinburne student email for messages about your application status or requests for additional details.
• Receive assessment: If approved, you’ll be notified of payment timing and next steps. Set up a bank account if required, and keep all documentation in case the university or government checks your situation later.