Staying the course through cost pressures
Phoebe is studying a Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management while doing everything she can to balance her studies with rising living expenses.
📷 Crystalbrook Kingsley Environmental Scholarship recipient Phoebe Carter-Swain (right) with scholarship supporters Hayley Seymour (left) and Carl Taranto (middle) at the 2026 College of Engineering, Science and Environment Scholars’ Ceremony.
"I was at the point where I was looking at deferring my final year of study so I could work full time, save enough money to support myself and then return to complete my degree. Education is key to social change, but these financial stressors can make it hard to access," Phoebe says.
Rising grocery prices are making it harder for Phoebe to afford food. She grows her own vegetables at home, swaps produce with growers at local farmers’ markets and looks for other ways to reduce costs.
“I take as much of the discounted student food as possible, within reason, and I’m looking for ways to make food acquisition cheaper.”
Thanks to the support of the Crystalbrook Kingsley Environmental Scholarship, Phoebe has been able to continue her education, cover essential living expenses, and have her car serviced. The scholarship has given Phoebe valuable financial breathing room as she works towards completing her degree.
“Crystalbrook Kingsley is doing a service to the environment by supporting future graduates with a scholarship in this area,” Phoebe says.
As a leader in the Newcastle University Garden Society (NUGS), Phoebe also volunteers in the Community Garden at Callaghan campus. Leftover fruit and vegetables are donated to the University of Newcastle Students’ Association’s (UNSA) free food initiative, helping other students access fresh food.
Phoebe’s contribution demonstrates the ripple effect of scholarship support: helping one student continue their education can help many others. CEO of UNSA Mark Trevaskis agrees.
“Students supporting students is at the heart of Free Food Friday,” Mark says. “The contributions of fresh food from the NUGS mean there’s less chance that students walk away empty-handed.”
With the support of the scholarship, Phoebe is determined to complete her degree and use her skills to educate and empower others.
“Every environmental issue that we have is a cost-of-living issue as well, and if people are learning more, then they’re more empowered to make change and inspire others,” Phoebe says.
It can be challenging staying on top of rent, medical bills, buying food, and the upkeep of my car.”
Phoebe Carter-Swain
Crystalbrook Kingsley Environmental Scholarship Recipient
Bachelor of Environmental Science and Management Student
Scholarships ensure students can thrive in education. If you are interested in establishing or supporting a scholarship, please contact our team on 02 4921 8612 or email donor-relations@newcastle.edu.au
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- Office of Philanthropy
- Phone: 02 4921 8612
- Email: donor-relations@newcastle.edu.au
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The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.