RFDS Fairbrother Foundation Physical Health Scholarship

Overview

The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Fairbrother Foundation Physical Health Scholarship provides two final-year Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science students with the opportunity to live and work in a rural, regional, or remote Tasmanian community. Through a two-week placement with the RFDS, students will gain valuable experience supporting individuals with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions, and dementia.

During the placement, students will work closely with RFDS Exercise Physiologists and Exercise Scientists to conduct initial assessments, deliver one-on-one appointments, oversee group exercise classes, and develop tailored home exercise programs. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to understand the challenges and rewards of delivering healthcare in rural and remote settings, with a focus on improving access and outcomes for underserved populations.

All travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the scholarship, including return travel within Tasmania, accommodation for the duration of the placement, and a daily allowance. 

The two-week placement may occur as two consecutive weeks or two separate weeks throughout the year, across two RFDS service locations.

Eligibility

• Available to students who are:
  • Enrolled full-time in the final year of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at a Tasmanian campus in 2026
  • Able to undertake a two-week placement in 2026, outside of university course time
• Scholarships will be awarded based on:
  • Evidence of high-level skills in professional communication and practice
  • Demonstrated interest in and understanding of contemporary rural health issues
  • Demonstrated intention to engage in rural health practice in the future
  • Willingness to act as an ambassador for RFDS and the University’s Exercise and Sport Science program
• Previous RFDS experience is not required.
• The recipient must be available for the RFDS Scholarship Presentations held at the beginning of the year following their placement.

On-going Eligibility

Remain enrolled full-time in the final year of the Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science

Amount

This experience is the result of the generous support of The Fairbrother Foundation, who have contributed $1000 to each scholarship recipient towards costs the student may incur during the scholarship placement in a rural or remote setting.

Duration

Two-week placement, either as two consecutive weeks or two separate weeks at different times of the year, across two RFDS service locations.

Opening Date

29 August 2025

Closing Date

05 January 2026

Apply

Apply online prior to closing date. Applications cannot be submitted after closing date.

As applicants will be assessed on the quality of application, all questions should be answered in full. Please ensure care is taken with spelling and grammar.

Application status

Not yet open