Employer contribution Q&A

The Employer Contribution is paid directly to the Australian Scholarships Foundation and allows us to expand the number of high-quality programs we can provide, assists with service delivery costs, and enables us to invest in research and development that strengthens the not-for-profit sector.

If you’re not able to find the answer to your query below, feel free to contact us via email or give us a call on
1300 248 675 and we’ll assist you as best we can.

What is the Employer Contribution?
The Employer Contribution is a way for not-for-profits to facilitate learning and development for their organisation via a small contribution to any scholarships Australian Scholarships Foundation awards to their employees.
How much is it?
The Employer Contribution is up to 20% of the scholarship value, payable only if the employee is successful with their scholarship application.
Why has the Australian Scholarships Foundation started charging the Employer Contribution?
At a time when not-for-profit organisations are being disrupted by altered funding models, technology advances and social enterprises, it is critical the sector is equipped with the tools and knowledge it needs to adapt and respond to changing market dynamics.

The Employer Contribution allows the Australian Scholarships Foundation to expand the number of high-quality programs we can provide, will help with service delivery costs and enable us to invest in research and development that strengthens the NFP sector.
Why do only some scholarships have the Employer Contribution?
There is no debate that the NFP sector needs access to quality learning and development. It is the Australian Scholarships Foundation’s goal to ensure this is provided to you at a significantly lower cost (80% below market rate) rather than, for example, what the corporate sector would be required to pay.

We work hard to secure scholarships across a variety of platforms which means some of our funding and education partners can shoulder 100% of the program and associated service delivery costs. In these cases, the Employer Contribution is not required.

Check if the scholarship you are applying for requires an Employer Contribution by referring to the ‘Scholarship Inclusions’ section of the scholarship in question.
Do all scholarships attract the Employer Contribution?
We recommend you always check the ‘Scholarship Inclusions’ section of the scholarship in question to learn about what is covered by your scholarship and whether there are any costs involved. In general, the Employer Contribution will not be charged for scholarships where a funding partner covers the program and service delivery costs.

I don’t feel comfortable asking my employer to fund my learning and development
It can be a daunting conversation if you have not had to ask for support regarding your professional development. If you’d like advice on how to seek your employer’s support for your learning and development, we are here to help. You can reach us on [email protected] or phone us on 1300 248 675.
How do I pay?
Direct deposit via an invoice or credit card.
When is the payment due?
If you are successful with a scholarship application that attracts the Employer Contribution, the Australian Scholarships Foundation will invoice your organisation after you have provided written acceptance of the scholarship award.
Can I make a payment plan?
Payment plans are accepted on a case by case basis. Please email [email protected] if you would like to work out a payment plan.
Is my payment tax deductible?
We are unable to offer tax advice; however, your CFO or accountant will be able to help with this question.