Apprentices from every corner of NSW have been recognised for their dedication, resilience and potential, with the NSW Government awarding the 2025 Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships to another outstanding cohort of learners. 

Among them are local apprentices Rory McGregor from Springwood and Robert Hughan from Blackheath, recognised for their exceptional dedication to the trade of plumbing and electrical work. 

Each of the successful apprentices will receive up to $15,000 in support over three years, helping them stay on track with their training and overcome financial or personal barriers.  

The scholarship will provide vital financial assistance to help them complete their training and build a long-term career in their chosen field. 

Rory McGregor,17, said his mother had alerted him to the scholarship application process. He had already used some of the first instalment of $5000 to buy some tools of the trade. 

“It’s helped me. I’ve bought some tools,” he said. 

Robert Hughan, 19, of Blackheath, said his mother had also encouraged him to apply. 

“At the time Mum thought it would help with tools of the trade and travel expenses. There was a story on a [NSW] government website about the Bert Evans scholarship, relating to [a winner of the scholarship who had experienced] hardship.  

“Mum passed away due to illness last year. I found out [I had been successful] in December. Mum would be pretty happy; she wanted me to apply.” 

Mr Hughan said he would be using it for “essentials and expenses like bills”, as well as to help his dad and two younger brothers. 

He works underground at Centennial Coal in Clarence and is a hosted employee of Zeal Futures. 

Named in honour of the late Bert Evans AO, an unwavering advocate for apprentices and vocational education, the scholarship continues his legacy of championing practical training and opportunity for all. 

Blue Mountains MP Trish Doyle said: 

“Every little bit counts when you are an apprentice and whether it is paying for tools of the trade, or just to help with cost-of-living, this is a fantastic way our government can help trainees. 

“I congratulate Robert and Rory for their commitment to upskilling and wish them well as they continue their lifelong journey of learning.” 

“As a long-term champion of TAFE, I’m so impressed with the boys’ choosing this excellent and practical educational pathway.” 

The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships are open to all registered apprentices in NSW, including school-based apprentices, and continue to make a meaningful difference to students in metropolitan, regional and remote communities. 

Since launching in 2014, the program has helped thousands of apprentices overcome financial pressures, access essential tools and equipment, and stay engaged in their training. 

As a result of investment from both the NSW Government, and the Australian Government under the National Skills Agreement, more scholarships are being awarded this year than ever before, with 225 recipients in 2026 compared with 150 recipients annually in past years.  

The 2025 recipients reflect the strength and diversity of NSW’s vocational training system, including: 38 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices, 28 apprentices with disability, 32 women thriving in non-traditional trades, and 68 mature-aged apprentices. 

A strong majority, 109 recipients, are from regional NSW, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to supporting skills development right across the state. 

Many of the scholarship recipients identify across multiple equity groups, highlighting the program’s role in opening doors for those who face the greatest challenges. 

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan said: 

“Every one of these apprentices has shown incredible determination, often in the face of real adversity. The Bert Evans scholarships are about backing that determination and giving people the support they need to succeed.” 

“These 225 recipients represent the future of our skilled workforce. They’re building careers that will keep NSW strong, and their diversity makes our industries more resilient and more reflective of the communities they serve.” 

MEDIA: Anthony Puntoriero | Minister Whan | 0466 504 142 

MEDIA: Brenda Cunningham-Lewis | Trish Doyle MP (02) 4751 3298 [email protected]