In recognition of the educational impact of the Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami of 11 March 2011, the Australian Government is making 10 Endeavour Awards available for Japan each year on an ongoing basis, with a focus in 2012 on the affected areas.

The 10 Endeavour Awards are available each year for both Japanese citizens to travel to Australia, and for Australians to travel to Japan to undertake study, research or professional development. 

In 2012, priority will be given to Japanese citizens in the affected areas, where there may be a benefit from an exchange with Australia. Australian students or professionals will also be able to undertake study or professional development at institutions in Japan’s affected areas.

Under the 2012 Endeavour Awards for Japan, affected areas will be defined as those areas eligible for assistance under the Japanese Disaster Relief Act. The Prefectures included are: Aomori, Iwate, Miyagi, Fukushima, Ibaraki, Tochigi, Chiba and Tokyo.

Priority will be given to the affected areas in 2012, however applications to travel to or from outside the affected area will also be considered.

Through the Endeavour Awards Program, the Australian Government seeks to provide opportunities for students, academics and professionals from the affected areas of Japan to study, learn and to experience Australia - and in doing so we aim to play a small part in helping to rebuild lives and communities, and contribute to the educational growth of the Kanto/Tohoku region. 

* Applicants should reconsider choosing part of a country that has been assessed by DFAT as an area not to travel (Level 4) as a study program that involves such areas will not be approved. Visit the DFAT website for current information about countries that are considered a travel risk: http://www.smartraveller.gov.au.