What does ABSF mean in AUSTRALIAN

Australian Bicentennial Scholarships and Fellowships (ABSF) is a scheme created in 1988 to mark the 200th anniversary of the European settlement of Australia. ABSF it provided grants for study and research in Australia, with a focus on projects with potential to benefit Australia. Grants were awarded over four years (1988-1992), supporting more than 4500 individuals from around the world.

Applications were accepted from citizens of all countries, both within and beyond the Asia/Pacific region, provided their research or studies fell within the scope of the objectives outlined by each year’s national program. All applications needed to be submitted through an organisation recognised as such in the respective country.

The fields supported by ABSF included culture, environment, skill development, science & technology, health care & medical science, education & training, international understanding and business linkages. Awards typically allowed for up to one year’s postgraduate study or research in Australia.

Yes - award recipients were required to declare all payments received under the scheme as assessable income for taxation purposes. However many countries had entered into double taxation agreements with Australia which may have made some taxes payable overseas instead of in Australia. Recipients should consult with their own countries’ tax offices in order to determine this.

Applications opened annually between February and June. Applicants must have held their Citizenship at least six months prior to application opening dates. Closing dates were usually towards the end of July each year.

The ABSF grant scheme covered living expenses (such as accommodation and meals) related travel expenses (to/from/within Australia). Some awards also covered field trip costs associated with undertaking research activities during their stay in Australia.