Studies assistance and study leave application

Submission requirements

The studies assistance and study leave application form is to be used to gain approval from Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) for study leave and/or financial assistance in relation to a formal course of study from any Australian educational institution including nationally accredited training authorities and registered training providers.

Important: All subsequent periods of study will require a new application. Periods of study may be referenced as: Study period 1, Semester 1, Session 1, Spring Session 1, Trimester 2, Term 2, Special study period 2, Winter intensive etc.

For example, an employee is undertaking two periods of study, this would require two separate  applications to be submitted.

  • Term 1 – studying 2 units would be one application.
  • Semester 2 2024 - studying 3 units would require a new application to be submitted.

Please note:

  • An application for studies assistance and study leave should be submitted at least 2 weeks prior to the commencement of the proposed course of study.
  • Final approval rests with PWSS and approval should be provided by PWSS prior to the course of study commencing.

For more information regarding studies assistance, please refer to the Commonwealth Members of Parliament Staff Enterprise Agreement 2020-23 and the studies assistance guideline.

Supporting documentation

To ensure there is no delay to reviewing your studies assistance and study leave application, please attach the below supporting documentation to your application form. 

  • Ensure you seek approval of your application for studies assistance and study leave via the approval email template from your parliamentarian or authorised person within the office and attach this to your application. The approval email must include confirmation from the employer that:
    • This chosen study has relevance to the work in the office.
    • Financial assistance and/or requested study leave hours can be approved.
  • Attach enrolment or course outline details (certified copies are acceptable).
  • Attach a copy or link to the institute’s academic calendar for your period of study.

Mode of submission

Please complete the studies assistance and study leave web form and attach supporting documentation outlined above. Your application will be forwarded to the PWSS Training team for review.