Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)
The Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) is a new initiative designed to help eligible nursing, midwifery, social work and teaching students manage the costs associated with undertaking a mandatory placement (also known as a practicum or work-integrated learning).
Starting from 1 July 2025, eligible students will receive AU$331.65 per week whilst undertaking a mandatory placement. The payment will be means-tested to ensure support is targeted to students who need it the most. This amount is subject to change in future years.
For Higher Education students, CQUniversity will manage the CPP application process and distribution of payment to successful applicants.
If you’re a Vocational Education and Training (VET) (otherwise known as TAFE) student, visit the CPP – VET webpage for information about the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) process, including eligibility and instructions on how to apply.
If you have any questions, you can call us on 13 27 86 between 7:30 am - 6:00 pm AEST, Monday to Friday, or email studentscholarships@cqu.edu.au.
To be eligible for the CPP, you must be:
- A domestic student studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP).
- Completing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in an eligible nursing, midwifery, social work or teaching course.
- Either receiving an eligible Centrelink Income Support Payment (ISP) or meet both the Need to Work Test and Income Test.
- Undertaking a mandatory placement that meets one of the following criteria:
- Placement of at least 30 hours or more per week for the duration of the placement; or
- For midwifery students, undertaking a Continuity of Care placement, which has alternate criteria.
Midwifery Placements Continuity of Care Placement
Please visit the Department of Education webpage for more information.
Education
- CM43 Master of Teaching (Early Childhood)
- CC12 Bachelor of Education (Primary)
- CC14 Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)
- CC13 Bachelor of Education (Secondary)
- CL05 Master of Teaching (Secondary)
- CC45 Master of Teaching (Primary)
Midwifery
Nursing
- CL91 Bachelor of Nursing
- CM73 Master of Nursing (Graduate Entry)
- CM77 Bachelor of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse Pathway)
- CH79 Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Re-Entry)
Social Work
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Applicants must be enrolled in a placement unit before applying for CPP. Ensure you have enrolled in a placement unit in the MyCQU student portal before you begin the application process.
The application form is available from MyCQU. Visit the Support view, then Student Forms, and search for 'CPP'.
CQUniversity will work within Australian Government eligibility criteria to assess applications and award Commonwealth Prac Payments.
