Victorian students living in public or community housing or those at risk of homelessness and completing their VCE at school and TAFE have been urged to apply for scholarships announced during Housing Week.

Ms Broad said the scholarship program would provide a better education for students living in public housing.

'The Government believes everyone deserves a good start in life and this scholarship will give 37 students a better chance of completing their education.

'The Housing Week scholarships program recognises students' commitment to their education and is not necessarily based on scholastic achievement.

'Scholarship funds will be given to the school and may be used for a range of purposes, including the purchase of books, computer equipment, transport or childcare to help the students finish their schooling successfully.'

Each scholarship is worth $1,000 and will be available to students—living in public, Aboriginal or community housing—who are studying Year 11 or 12 or the TAFE equivalent.

For the first time in the program's three-year history, two scholarships have been added for Victoria's Aboriginal students.

Students must be aged under 18 at February 1, 2007.

The successful applicants will be selected by an independent panel, including representatives from the Department of Human Services, the Department of Education and Training and a public housing tenant.

Applications close on Friday, August 11, and successful applicants will be announced in late 2006.

•          For full details of the scholarships and how to apply visit http://www.educationfoundation.org.au.