Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester met with Louise Martin and Naomi Obst from the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (ICPA) during Victorian Education Week (May 13 to 17) to discuss the educational needs, aspirations and challenges of children in isolated rural and regional communities.
ICPA is a voluntary, not-for-profit, apolitical parent body dedicated to ensuring equity of access to a continuing and appropriate education for rural and remote students.
Since its inception in 1971, ICPA has spearheaded initiatives that have significantly improved the educational landscape for geographically isolated students. The Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme (AIC), a Federal Government allowance that supports students in accessing education through distance education, is a prime example of their impactful work.
ICPA has established itinerant teaching services, championed improvements to telecommunication services for isolated families supporting the better delivery of distance and rural education, and advocated for changes to Youth Allowance, which saw the introduction of a Relocation Scholarship, among other modifications.
While ICPA has made considerable strides in improving access to education for rural and remote students, Mr Chester said more must be done to achieve equitable education for children in isolated rural and regional communities.
“Every child, regardless of geographical location, has the right to a high standard education,” he said.
“The education of rural and remote students is paramount to the retention of a skilled workforce in Australia’s remotest areas, and we must continue to support equitable educational opportunities for children in isolated rural and regional communities.”
