Support & Equity Unit

Index

• Introduction
• Eligibility Criteria
• Confidentiality
• Safety Net Grant Scheme Committee
• Review of Decision
• Contacting your Student Organisation
• If you need assistance from a Student Counsellor 
• Glossary of Terms

Introduction

The purpose of the University of Tasmania's Safety Net Grant Scheme is to provide emergency financial assistance to eligible students who are experiencing financial hardship which is adversely affecting their education. The main criteria for assistance under the Scheme is that a student demonstrates a genuine need and that their capacity for continued study may be in jeopardy due to financial hardship. Ensure you read all sections of the Safety Net Grant Scheme application and information carefully.

The Scheme will not fund the payment of the following costs:

• Library and parking fines
• Service and Amenities fees
  
• HECS or course fees
• Payment to credit card accounts

As the Scheme draws on a limited pool of funds, the University makes no representation or warranties as to the availability of funds for assistance under this Scheme for students.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible a student must:

• Be currently enrolled
• Be at risk of discontinuing their study
• Demonstrate exceptional financial hardship
• Demonstrate an ability and intention to complete their course of study.

Confidentiality

Members of the Committee and all other staff who are either directly or indirectly involved in administration of the Scheme will maintain confidentiality and discretion in all matters relating to the Scheme.

Safety Net Grant Scheme Committee

The Committee comprises nominated representatives from:

• The Tasmania University Union (two votes)
• Support and Equity Unit (one vote)
• International Services (one vote)
• Financial and Business Services (one vote)

The Committee meets on a weekly basis. Students shall have the right to a review of a decision as described in the 'Review of Decision' section.

Review of Decision

You have the right to request a review of a Committee decision. To request a review you must provide a request in writing and provide any additional information which may be relevant. The application will be reviewed at a meeting of the Review Committee at which you can appear and/or you have the right of representation.

Contacting your Student Organisation

Tasmania University Union:

Hobart - 6226 2855
Launceston - 6324 3776
Cradle Coast - 6430 4936
Sydney students please call Launceston - (03) 6324 3776

If you need assistance from a counsellor

Contact Support and Equity on:

Hobart - 6226 2697
Launceston - 6324 3787
Cradle Coast - 6430 4949
Sydney students please call Launceston - (03) 6324 3787

Glossary of Terms

Financial assistance refers to the allowable assistance available through the University's Safety Net Grant Scheme.

Student refers to a student currently enrolled in and undertaking an Award course at the University of Tasmania.

Committee refers to the University's Safety Net Grant Scheme Committee.

Scheme refers to the University's Safety Net Grant Scheme.

Interviewing Officer refers to designated representatives of the Tasmania University Union who conducts the student's application interview and makes a recommendation to the Committee on the application.

Review Committee refers to the Safety Net Grants Scheme Review Committee. The Review Committee comprises the statewide TUU President; Manager, Support and Equity Unit; Manager, International Services and Manager, Financial and Business Services (or their authorised delegates). The Review Committee meets on an as needs basis to review applications and make a decision, and to review the procedures and guidelines pertaining to the Scheme.