Rural students studying health related fields will have the chance to get financial assistance for their studies after an annual grant from the Country Women's Association (CWA).

Barwon Group Medical Grant typically hands out around $20,000 every year, assisting around ten students studying in a range of fields including medicine, medical science, nursing and social work.

The Barwon Group are now looking for new applicants from around their patch to take up the help.

Grant Co-ordinator Jocelyn Cameron said the grants can be used on expenses including accommodation and equipment for students who have completed at least six months in their first year- and committed to staying the path.

"It's money for buying textbooks and paying necessary fees to start your degree with the things you need," Ms Cameron said.

"When you're working full time, the basic stuff is sometimes a little difficult to manage, especially if you have a family.

"Some of the applicants are full time students, and they're studying on campus. Some of them are working full time or part time while they study online."

The grant is open to undergraduates and TAFE students, as well as postgraduates and those updating existing qualifications.

The grant was established in 1998 and supports students from Wee Waa, Burren Junction, Walgett, Lightning Ridge, Rowena, Weilmoringle and Collarenebri.

Rowena-raised Peta Cameron received $4000 in grants between 2010-13 while studying a sport science degree in Sydney.

She now works as a registered nurse in Orange and says the funding allowed her to take up a placement with an exercise physiologist in Moree.

"I was really fortunate to be able to do prac rurally and see how life could be done in that job in the bush not just in the city," she said.

"I wouldn't be too worried about the process of going through the interviews, because essentially you're just talking about your degree.

"Everyone was really great during the interview."

Dr Charlie Hanigan

Pilliga-raised Chris Hanigan, received the grant four times while studying psychology at Bond University between 2015-17, and studying medicine at Notre Dame between 2020-2024.

He says the grant wasn't just financial support, but a morale-booster for a young student.

"It was important to be able to focus the time on studies and training rather than working heaps to try and feed yourself. So it's helped from that point," said Mr Hanigan.

"But also it was a symbolic benefit, feeling like a community was backing you.

"On top of the money being helpful from a training opportunity perspective, because not everyone can actually afford university, I think most people need support from families and stuff and from their communities."

Mr Hanigan is currently working as a junior doctor at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.

The 2025 CWA Barwon Group Medical Grant opened on the 25 July and is accepting applications until the 5 September.