HEPPP

What’s HEPPP?

The Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP) is a national initiative funded by the Australian Government. It supports universities like the University of Newcastle to improve access to higher education for students from low socio-economic backgrounds. At our University, we believe that every student should have the opportunity to succeed.

Why does HEPPP exist?

Not everyone starts university from the same starting line. Some students face barriers—financial, social, or geographic—that can make it harder to get into university or to thrive once they're here.

The aim is simple:  To ensure that your background doesn’t determine your future.

What does HEPPP support?

At our University, HEPPP funding supports a wide range of programs, services, and initiatives that are designed to support you at every stage of your student journey. These include:

1. Support to prepare for university

• Outreach programs for high school students
• Information sessions and workshops to help you understand university pathways

2. Support while you study

• Peer mentoring and tutoring programs
• Study skill workshops
• Financial support through scholarships and grants
• Access to student equity advisors
• Tailored support for students who are first in their family to attend university

3. Career and future planning

• Career-readiness workshops
• Support to access internships or work placements
• Programs to build leadership and confidence

Who is eligible?

HEPPP support is primarily designed for students from underrepresented backgrounds in higher education. At our University, students may be eligible for HEPPP-supported programs and services if they belong to one or more of the following categories:

1. Students from Low Socio-Economic Status (low-SES) backgrounds
Students whose background includes financial hardship or limited access to educational resources.

2. Students from Regional or Remote Areas
Students who come from communities outside major cities, where access to higher education is often more difficult.

3. Indigenous Australian Students
Students who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Even if you are unsure whether you fall into one of these categories, you’re encouraged to reach out—many services are inclusive and designed to help students succeed.

Some of the areas that received HEPPP funding in 2024

School of Engineering, Science and Environment- The Science and Engineering Challenge (SEC) helps students, especially from underrepresented groups, discover STEM careers through hands-on activities, making science and maths more accessible and inspiring future study.

Centre of Excellence for Equity in Higher Education- This Centre supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access and succeed in higher education, partners with communities, and drives research and innovation to create a fairer, more inclusive university environment.

Student Wellbeing- Tailored support includes alternative exam arrangements, embedded counselling, student engagement programs, WIL bursaries and scholarships, and dedicated advisors for accessibility and financial wellbeing.

College of Engineering, Science and Environment- STEM Engagement and Careers (SEC) is a project that encourages student participation in senior science and maths to build a strong foundation for STEM degrees. Through hands-on event days, students explore careers in science, engineering, and related fields. The program focuses on equity, supporting students from rural and remote areas, low SES backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and female students.

More information on HEPPP can be found here

HEPPP funded projects/initiatives by area