[1] The plan was launched as a signature initiative of the Abbott government's foreign policy in 2014, and was aimed at enhancing the knowledge of the Indo-Pacific in Australia, by supporting Australian undergraduates studying and undertaking internships in the region.
In 2014, the pilot scheme supported 40 scholars and more than 1300 mobility students to study and undertake work placements.
Scholars receive a dedicated case manager, internship and networking opportunities, a training program from the Australian Government, and up to $87,000 in monetary benefits per successful applicant.
[citation needed] Scholar selection first consists of Universities nominating up to 10 students to compete nationally for the Scholarships.
Selection criteria for the Scholarships are:[4] The application process also considers reports from academic and community-based referees.