Torres Strait Islands students will soon have greater access to secondary education through improved boarding facilities on Queensland's Thursday Island.
The $4.7 million extension and improvement of the on-Country boarding home, Torres Strait Kaziw Meta aims to improve the quality and capacity of the boarding facility, keeping the region's secondary students closer to land and sea Country.
The funding will increase Torres Strait Kaziw Meta's capacity from 66 to support an additional six students, shortening its waiting list and improving education outcomes for students who have little or no access to secondary education closer to home.
Upgrades to the security and safety of the facility will also occur, as well as improve the study environment for students and construct a new residence for boarding support staff.
Torres Strait Kaziw Meta chief executive Thomas Dunsmore said the non-for-profit organisation was "thrilled and grateful" for the funding support from the federal government.
"This funding enables the expansion of Kaziw Meta, allowing us to provide additional housing for outer island families so their children can receive an education on country," Mr Dunsmore said.
Following growing demand for boarding in the region, the investment in Torres Strait Kaziw Meta's facilities aims to increased participation, attendance and retention of First Nations young people in the Torres Strait.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Australians Linda Burney said upgrades to Torres Strait Kaziw Meta will provide First Nations students from the Torres Strait a quality option to study closer to home and not have to move to the mainland.
"This is an important way for young people to stay connected to Country and sea," Ms Burney said.
"The Australian government is pleased to partner with providers like Torres Strait Kaziw Meta who are meeting the growing demand for on-Country facilities that connect First Nations young people in remote regions with education opportunities.
"By providing culturally appropriate support to keep First Nations students engaged in school, they can realise their potential and confidently transition into further education and opportunities that improve life outcomes."
The federal government's support of Torres Strait Kaziw Meta aims to contribute to Closing the Gap targets by increasing the proportion of First Nations youth engaged in education and completing year 12.
The funding provided to Torres Strait Kaziw Meta is provided by the Indigenous Advancement Strategy (IAS) Children and Schooling program and builds on $1.5 million in Indigenous Boarding Providers grants received by Torres Strait Kaziw Meta since 2022.
