Real ways to study now, and pay later

Real ways to study now, and pay later Real ways to study now, and pay laterPosted August 18, 2014, by Vivien LuuThinking of studying at TAFE or university but worried that you cant afford it? While theres no denying how expensive tertiary education can be, theres also no denying it has a huge effect on your earning potential and employability. And if youre an Australian citizen or resident you could be eligible for a number of financial assistance schemes that will help you with your study expenses. Whether youre looking at a bachelor degree, a certificate or diploma, want to complete a postgraduate degree at university or youre just getting started with your first apprenticeship, there are options that allow you to study now and pay later. But before you start to think were about to sell you a high-interest credit card, lets set the record straight even if we wanted to, we wouldnt have to. Australias student loans are low-interest and only need to be paid back once you earn enou gh to afford it so theres no anxiety about your card being repossessed So how do you know what youre eligible for? How much can you borrow? What are the repayments like? Take a look at the six areas of financial hilfe below and you might just be pleasantly surprised.Got a course in mind and want to see whether its supported by government loans? Take a look at our courses page and keep an eye out for HECS-HELP, VET-HELP and FEE-HELP icons, or just select government support to refine your search to see which courses you can afford.Government study loansHECS-HELPWhat is it?A low-interest government loan scheme thatll help you pay parte of your tuition fees for an undergraduate degree.EligibilityAustralian citizen or residentEnrolled in an undergraduate course with a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)Loan limitNo limitInterest/indexationCurrently indexed according to the Consumer Price Index2016 Indexed according to treasury 10 year bond rate (to a max of 6 per cent per annum) *Subje ct to legislation being passed.FeesNo loan feesPaying it backGraduates currently need to start paying their loans back once they earn $53,345 per annum or moreFrom 2016, graduates will need to start making repayments through their tax when their income hits $50,638 per annum *Subject to legislation being passed.FEE-HELPWhat is it?A low-interest loan from the government that helps you to pay for all or part of your university fees. This loan only covers tuition, not associated study costs. Ideal for when youre paying full fees, such as postgraduate studies or when you arent able to get a Commonwealth Supported Place for your undergraduate studies.EligibilityAustralian citizen or residentStudying at an approved FEE-HELP providerCompleting a postgraduate degree OR approved undergraduate degreeLoan limitThe overall FEE-HELP limit is currently $96,000 for your lifetime OR $120,000 if youre studying medicine, dentistry or veterinary scienceFrom 2016 there will be no loan limit * Subjec t to legislation being passedInterestCurrently indexed according to the Consumer Price Index2016 Indexed according to treasury 10 year bond rate (to a max of 6 per cent per annum) *Subject to legislation being passed.FeesThere is a loan fee of 25 per cent if your FEE-HELP loan is for undergraduate coursesThis loan fee will be removed in 2016Paying it backWhen your income hits $53,345 per annum you will need to start repaying your loan through your taxVET FEE-HELPWhat is it?A low-interest loan from the government that is used to pay all or part of your TAFE tuition fees, but doesnt cover associated study costs such as accommodation or books.EligibilityAustralian citizen or residentStudying at an approved VET FEE-HELP provider, such as TAFE or an accredited private collegeCompleting a diploma, advanced diploma, vocational graduate certificate or vocational graduate diploma ORCertificate IV in the following fields aged care, disability, information technology networking, agriculture, t ravel and tourism *Only available between 2014 and 2016 as part of the governments certificate IV trial.Loan limitThe overall FEE-HELP limit is currently $96,000 for your lifetime OR $120,000 if youre studying medicine, dentistry or veterinary scienceFrom 2016 there will be no loan limit * Subject to legislation being passedInterestCurrently indexed according to the Consumer Price Index2016 Indexed according to treasury 10 year bond rate (to a max of 6 per cent per annum) *Subject to legislation being passed.FeesThere is a loan fee of 25 per cent if your FEE-HELP loan is for undergraduate coursesThis loan fee will be removed in 2016Paying it backWhen your income hits $53,345 per annum you will need to start repaying your loan through your taxIncome SupportAs a cash-strapped student or apprentice you could also be eligible for a range of income support options from Centrelink and other government bodiesYouth Allowance A regular payment for full-time students or apprentices aged betw een 16 and 24ABSTUDY Financial support for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students or apprenticesAustudy Government welfare payments for full-time students or full-time apprentices aged 25 or overSupport for Adult Australian Apprentices (SAAA) Financial assistance for apprentices aged 25 or over, designed to help cover the costs of living while on apprentice wages.Other financial assistanceYou may also be eligible forFares Allowance If youre living away from home in order to study, then this allowance can help to cover the cost of travelling between your residence and place of studyEducation Entry Payment A payment of $208 paid annually to help with study costs for individuals on specific income supportsChild Care Benefit If you have children who need childcare while you study then this financial benefit could help you to make ends meet ResourcesMy first resumeCover letter for my first jobCareer Insider StoriesShelley Lask - Body Positive Health & FitnessInterested in becoming a?Human Resources OfficerGeneral ManagerBusiness ManagerAccountantOffice Administrator CoursesBachelor of Social WorkEnquire erreichbar Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Health AdministrationEnquire Online Enquire OnlineBachelor of Criminal JusticeEnquire Online Enquire OnlineCertificate III in Allied Health AssistanceEnquire Online Enquire Online Vivien LuuViv is a writer who enjoys researching and writing about creativity, how the human mind works, and neuro processes. She values creativity above all else and admires people who pursue their career dreams, no matter the sacrifice. In her spare time, she binges on HBO shows and epic fantasy novels.Related ArticlesBrowse moreSTUDYINGFind the one How to pick a course that works for youFinding the right course to commit to can be tough. Are you after a short course that ignites your passions or are you in it for the long haul and want a course that offers your career security? Find out how to find the one with these simple steps.Christ masCoworkers8 Kris Kringle gifts that wont get you firedIts one of the biggest office dilemmas you can face what to buy your Kris Kringle? Our resident shopping guru, Andrea, has put together eight failsafe present ideas.TESOLHot opportunities to teach English overseasKeen to get going to see the world? Now you can complete your TESOL training overseas.

TED Talk Making Work Part of What Makes Life Worthwhile

rocknroller Talk Making Work Part of What Makes Life WorthwhileTED Talk Making Work Part of What Makes Life Worthwhile1We often focus on work as being a means to an end- we work to have the money and benefits to care for a family and enjoy what time we have left over. With this perspective, many people feel they are always chasing the career that will one day make them happy or where they will find their passion. But, what if what makes life worthwhile is really right in front of yur face? What if all it takes is to change your perspective of work? It truly might be that simple.In a TED talk delivered by Chip Conley, he examines the many ways in which our perspective on happiness and well-being is clouded by our societal patterns. Rather than focusing on the true needs of ourselves as humans, we focus on outward wants. We also like to focus and count tangible things rather than relishing in the intangibles that make all the difference. So, how does this relate to work? In so many way sAs professionals, we focus on the tasks that we are doing to get to the end product. What we miss are the immeasurable outcomes of the simple tasks we do on a daily basis. Sure, these tasks might not be fulfilling or feel meaningful, but the experiences they create for us is where we find happiness. Rather than chasing after the elusive things we want in life, all we have to do is change our perspective to see that we already have them. All we need to do is create the conditions and environment where they can be experienced.Here are a few ways to make work part of what makes life worthwhile and interestingThink about the positive impact you are having on others.Consider the relationships with your coworkers.Ponderthe positive impacts your career has on your family.Count the experiences youve had that you wouldnt if you werent in your field.Get invested in your companys mission and make an impact.Focus on experiences and connections rather than the next dollar.Consider the wayflexib le work helps you make meaningful memories for yourself and others.Explore flexible work options hereChanging your perspective can help create a new and improved environment where happiness can grow and thrive. Make sure to ask important questions, count the things that arent tangible, and learn to care about happiness and experiences rather than tangible items.Readers, what are your thoughts on the TED talk about what makes life worthwhile? Share your ideas with us below

Companies Offering Unique Part-Time Employee Benefits

Companies Offering Unique Part-Time Employee BenefitsCompanies Offering Unique Part-Time Employee BenefitsWorking as a parte-time employee does not have to mean zero benefits and perks. In fact, companies have begun offering their part-time employees various benefits and perks to keep them from moving elsewhere. Not every employee at every company is on the payroll full-time. Many companies rely on their part-time staff to keep the operations moving seamlessly day in and day out. If you are on the hunt for a part-time job that offers unique benefits and other perks, heres a list of 10 American companies are offering the best to retain and maintain strong workforces. Costco According to its career and benefits website, Costco, the leading wholesale goods retailer, offers its hourly part-time employees a pretty impressive benefits package once they have worked for the company for 180 days. Part-timeemployees are also eligible for health coverage on the1st of the second month follow ing 450 paid hours.The benefits include dental, health, and vision coverage to go along with a 401(k), childcare assistance, life insurance, and prescription medication discounts. It also offers a unique program for parents of autistic and other disabled children, called ReThink, where they can get support and access to resources to cope with the challenges of caring for special needs youngsters. Barnes Noble Part-time employees at Barnes Noble, a premier bookseller, also get a hefty benefits package. The employees receive discounts on all products, including the e-reader Nook and its accessories. On top of their discounts, part-time employees also receive paid vacation time, personal time, sick days, and holidays.Work schedules are very flexible, making it the perfect job for college students and second-giggers. Employees can also take part in dental and health plans after six months of employment. The company also offers a 401(k) plan with employer match up to four percent. Lowes Working as a part-timer at Lowes, the home DIY retailer, is very rewarding. These employees are eligible for benefits and perks from day one on the job. It includes employee stock purchasing plans, dental, vision, health, and a 401(k). Lowes also offers its employees generous commuter spending accounts and a corporate wellness program that helps employees make the most of their lives. Staples To qualify for benefits as a part-time employee with Staples, the office supply retailer, employees must work 500 hours in a period of six months, or complete 60 days of tafelgeschirr. Their plan description states, Staples offers dental, life, dependent life, accidental death, and short-term disability insurance coverage to all part-time associates. Staples also offers a national network vision plan to associates that covers eye exams, frames, lenses, contacts, and refractive eye surgery. The company provides 10 percent discounts to all employees, the opportunity to earn referral bonuses, college discounts, and tuition reimbursement. They also provide assistance to find child and elder care, a stock purchase plan, a 401(k), and legal professional services. Nike Working part-time at Nike, the leading sports apparel company brings benefits too, but they do not take effect until one year of service. The employees must also work 20 hours per week. These employees are then eligible for health, dental, vision, long-term care insurance, 401(k), and paid time off. And, of course, all Nike employees qualify for generous discounts on Nike products and apparel. UPS What can brown do for you? Well, if you want to work for UPS,the worlds leading shipping company, part-time, you can receive full-time benefits for part-time hours. The company offers tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and various insurance programs. Part-time employees enjoy rigorous training that can prepare them for full-time careers in the future, and UPS is known for compensating v ery well. Whole Foods After a probationary period of employment and a 20-hour work week, part-time employees at Whole Foods, the top organic grocery store, are eligible for quite a benefits package. Health insurance premiums nearly paid in full, paid time off, life insurance, stock option-retirement plans and a store discount of 20 percent or more. Employees are also eligible for gainsharing, which shares store profits with employees. JPMorgan Chase Any employee who works more than 20 hours per week at financial service company JPMorgan Chase is eligible for a benefits package. Life and accident insurance, full health insurance, reimbursement for tuition, child care assistance and discounts on products are all offered to employees. Other perks include tuition reimbursement, commuter spending accounts, and flexible work options. Allegis Group The benefits package at Allegis Group appliesto any employee who works 20 or more hours per week. The company has just 10,000 full- time employees and 100,000 contract and temporary employees. One of the most popular benefits offered is the profit-sharing bonus. Along with affordable health care benefits, wellness perks, and tuition reimbursement for higher learning, Allegis Group also offers its employees paid time off and paid sick leave based on a schedule of time-served. Lands End Part-time and seasonal employees at Lands End, whether at corporate headquarters or in retail stores, receive benefits that include auto insurance, health insurance, child care assistance, a group legal plan, merchandise discounts, homeowners insurance, a backup child care center, and much more. Their career website indicates that they also offer, generous employee discounts on Lands End and Sears merchandise, and free access to theComer Center, a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness complex for Lands End employees and their families. These are just 10 companies that offer incredible benefits packages and perks for their part- time employees. So many companies are offering more for part-time workers to keep them on the payroll and give them the same work-life balance as full-time employees.

How seasonal shifts impacts productivity (and how to cope)

How seasonal shifts impacts productivity (and how to cope)How seasonal shifts impacts productivity (and how to cope)While seasonal affective disorder is commonly discussed when the temperature drops below freezing, any shift in weather can cause you to feel off kilter. Especially when you transition from the relaxing, low key days of summer to the year-end planning meetings of autumn, you may struggle to find your rhythm. Career expert and author Caroline Vazzana says much like school children returning to the classroom, the back to work attitude is in full force in September.It seems that all of the big projects pick back up in the fall and workload increases. This can result in a employees feeling overwhelmed and overworked, she explains. To help you meet deadlines, reap a solid performance review and finish the quarter strong, here, experts give their best advice on how to remain productiveRecognize that this is bedrngnis a mythMuch like anything that puts a wrench in your routine , chief engagement and brand officer at EHE Joy Altimare says acceptance is the first step to pushing forward. Or in other words understand that what you might be feeling is completely normal. And its backed by medicine. Scientists know there are a lot of biological and physiological reasons our moods tend to change with the season, but one of the biggest factors in seasonal mood swings is light, she explains. The scientific evidence determines the amount of daily vitamin D is the main seasonal variable that affects mood, according to the US National Library of Medicine National Institute of Health.How does this work? Its all internal Our bodys circadian clock monitors the day length and tells us when to feel sleepy and when to wake up. It regulates other systems in our body, like hormone release, temperature regulation, metabolism, and mood, she continues. So when theres less light during the day, some of those processes affected by the circadian clock, including ones that influenc e our mood, get disrupted. Therefore, when you feel a bit more sluggish during the fall and winter months, acknowledge that it is normal, seasonal effects.Make a listWhen youre still paying off that credit card bill from the beach vacation you took, packing up your swimsuits and battling allergies from foliage, remembering to return emails, prepare for meetings and other work tasks might fall to the wayside. Everyone has moments of feeling scattered-brained, but Vazzana says one way to collect your cognitive willpower is to make a list. The very act of checking off an item- physically or digitally- will have you feel accomplished and empowered to tackle another one ASAP.Adopt a balanced lifestyleTo live a long life - and thus have a robust career - Altimare says its important to pay attention to how you eat, think and move every single day. She believes the connection between these three dynamics ensures your happiness and your ability to perform to your best ability in (and out o f) the office. Get up and move every day. Daily movement, especially, during the fall/winter months, can be a big mood enhancer and positively impact stress, she continues.And with your diet? Altimare says it might be easy to eat comfort foods when its cool, try to balance the simple carbs, sugar-filled foods with fruits, veggies, proteins and complex-carbs and lots of water. Youll feel more energetic and the brain power you need to make good decisions at work and at home, she adds.Set goals - and celebrateWhile you should set goals for yourself every quarter according to Vazzana, if youre failing at focusing, theres no better time to consider the future instead of getting yperit in the present. Once youve determined where you hope to be by the time the first frost hits, you can decide how youll reward yourself for meeting your benchmarkers.If you do meet your goals, reward yourself with a new product youve been eyeing or a fun night out. Its important to always celebrate and ackno wledge your accomplishments, she explains.Spend time with friendsTrue story a belly laugh with your best friend can solve anything. Or a fulfilling date night with your partner. Altimare says when youre struggling to focus at work, make sure your time out of the office eases your nerves and angst.Work out with your girlfriends, sign-up for a language class with a pal, or invite friends over to have a healthy potluck, she explains. Ive found feeling like a belong and having a tribe Im connected to with activities planned helps me stay productive, personally and professionally

Sun Train Shines New Life on Vintage Rail

Sun Train Shines New Life on Vintage Rail Sun Train Shines New Life on Vintage Rail Sun Train Shines New Life on Vintage RailThe Byron Bay Train is an excursion line that runs on a 1.8-mile stretch of track along the Australian coast near Sydney. The bay is known for its beaches, surf, and wildlife. The vintage trainwhich originally ran on an 82-mile line that was active from 1894 to 2004 has also achieved renown its been retrofitted to run entirely off of solar power.From the ground, the 100-passenger, two-car train is a charming throwback, looking much like it did when it was first built in 1949. The 128 flexible thin film solar panels, capable of generating 6.4 kW, have been incorporated into the roof of the cars.Even when the sun is hidden behind clouds, the inverter is showing that we are still exporting at 17 kW into the grid. Tim Elderton, managing director, Lithgow Railway Workshop The 128 flexible thin-film solar panels are capable of generating 6.4 kW of ele ctricity. Image Byron Bay Railroad CompanyThe panels recharge a battery pack that enables the trainto travel 50 kilometers on level gelnde at speeds of up to 60 km per hour. The batteries can also draw from a 30 kW photovoltaic array mounted on the railcar shed roof at the main station. That array can recharge the electric train battery pack in less than 30 minutes.When the train isnt being recharged, the solar panels feed electricity to the grid, says Tim Elderton, managing director for Lithgow Railway Workshop, which was contracted by Byron Bay Railroad Company for the trains solar power conversion. A local green energy provider pays the railroad for the excess electricity. Also for You Trains Send Power to the Grid.Even when the sun is hidden behind clouds, the inverter is showing that we are still exporting at 17 kW into the grid, Elderton says. For me being a career railway mechanical engineer, I still find it astounding that a railway company can make money from exporting powe r generated by solar power, rather than the more conventional situation of spending money on diesel fuel to power trains.The train previously had 300-horsepower Cummins diesel engines. One was ripped out and replaced with an electric drive unit, while the other was retained for ballast weight for wheel traction. The other engine can be used should something ever go wrong with the electric drive unit or solar charging system, Elderton says.There were challenges in the conversion, especially when installing the engine, transmission, piping, and cabling. The total conversion cost roughly U.S. $650,000. It included modifications like installing electric air compressors to operate the air brakes, and replacing all lighting with LEDs to reduce power consumption.The vintage train is off to a successful start, with more than 10,000 passengers in its first 20 days. A restoration project of a museum piece suddenly has turned into a business opportunity for Lithgow Railway Workshop and Byron B ay Railroad, which are receiving inquiries for solar-powered trains. The two companies are planning to form a joint venture to manufacture and export the technology.The Byron Bay train is still new and runs only a short distance, but with battery-powered cars and freight trucks on their way, solar panels could play a role in modernizing trains. For Further Discussion

Shortcuts to How to Make a Great Resume Only a Few People Know

Shortcuts to How to Make a Great Resume Only a Few People Know You might need to look at a rewrite. A resume is quite important. Really, however, its your decision. It isnt as difficult as it might seem. There are a few great resources online that may help you see resume samples, get success hints, and even receive a critique, rewrite, or resume edit. There are lots of simple and productive tips in writing resume to draw employers attention, for more information please visit my site on how best to write job resume. Unless you happen to be a graphic designer looking for employment, theres no need to over think the plan of your one-pager. So if youre intent on discovering a great job that you should built a professional looking resume and the above mentioned websites to earn online resume can definitely assist you in developing a CV.Advertising jobs contains certain keyword phrases which are most prominent in each and every profession. Its a good idea to remain prepared wit h distinctive resumes written for different jobs. Your job search has to have a structure Start with industries and make a spreadsheet. When searching for hopping jobs, you can concentrate on the qualities that could assist you in your prospective profile. Possessing an impressive resume or a CV in the modern competitive world is crucial if your CV stands from the pile of CVs then the possibility of getting your dream job are always greater. Try and be specific as feasible highlight your best achievements, if its related to the job. It is possible to use the resume objective once you are targeting any specific job. Theres no greater way to earn a first impression. One of the fantastic strategies to earn a great first impression to the possible employer is by sending in a cover letter, together with your resume. The first point to look at when writing any resume is your private contact details. Based on the locale of law for which youre submitting a resume-and if you have s ufficient years of experience-you might need to incorporate a transaction sheet as a portion of your resume. To create a powerful and effectual leadership resume, youll find relief from making use of a concept known as the S-T-A-R (Situation-Task-Action-Result) strategy. Every task can only be successfully accomplished with the assistance of the appropriate procedure. In some cases, you might be better off using the help of a skilled or another recommended program. The trick is to format the info in a manner that makes it simple to scan and recognise your job targets and relevant qualifications, Augustine tells us. How to Make a Great Resume Options A terrific CV profile is perhaps the most essential part about getting work that you desire. You might want to take a look at all the resumes, for that issue. Your resume should stick out over the rest to grab the recruiters interest. While preparing the resume the candidate should think of all of the words, phrases, and key str ength which will help make a great impression on the possible employer. Below are some simple but important strategies to take notenzeichen in writing resume, to ensure it is possible to create a great first impression to please your possible employer. A cover letter is a place in which you concentrate on how you would satisfy the demands of your prospective employer. Once again, it is not a necessity when applying for a job. If you dont have any prior experience, then you ought to list your education first and then followed by the relevant skills related to the job accessible. Be Bold and Artistic Sometimes understanding how to compose a good resume isnt everything that you want to do. The most critical part in applying for employment is the best way to compose a good resume. You may embrace your fantasy job or you may stumble in your mistakes.

Underrated Concerns on Tips for Resume Writing Long Term Unemployed

Underrated Concerns on Tips for Resume Writing Long Term Unemployed The Demise of Tips for Resume Writing Long Term Unemployed As a freelancer, youll probably be in a position to steer clear of conversations about your work history. Additionally, there are multiple, legitimate opportunities to earn money on the internet. Because for quite a while, functional resumes were widely considered the very best approach to camouflage employment gaps or a scarcity of experience. Keeping your resume limited to a page is an ancient myth A lot of job seekers are within the impression that you must always keep your resume confined to a single page. New Ideas Into Tips for Resume Writing Long Term Unemployed Never Before Revealed An expert blog is a great method to remain current on industry problems, learn a new skill and keep engaged. The idea of writing a resume can be extremely intimidating since its tricky to understand where to begin or what to include. Writing a CV can be hard for everyone, and should you truly feel self-conscious regarding the gaps in your resume or dont understand how to describe your experiences on paper, dont be afraid to ask for support. A list of highlighted skills at the peak of your resume is an excellent means to prevent me from thinking too much. Professional Resume Services are also referred to as CV services. Employers like to find that you researched their business and the job youre applying for. Unique jobs have different requirements hence its very critical that you make your resume in accordance to the job accessible. If You Read Nothing Else Today, Read This Report on Tips for Resume Writing Long Term Unemployed Even supposing it is leid exactly related to the sorts of jobs youre searching for, its far, far superior than nothing. Sometimes people wish to modify their present job or career. By this time, youve probably developed a particular way in which you conduct your work search. You wish to be upfront about yo ur search for a job so they can point you in the proper direction.