A unified and collaborative approach to the education of rural and remote students is vital to the retention of a skilled workforce in the remotest areas of Australia. Providing families with the means to provide their children equitable educational opportunities and outcomes to their urban counterparts will serve to foster a skilled and experienced labour force regardless of geographical location. All State and Territory Governments need to be united in their pledge to empower these families so students who must live away from home to access an appropriate education regardless of where they live, feel supported and valued.
- Issue 1: Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for schools/boarding facilities providing on site living facilities for essential supervisory staff on that accommodation.
- Issue 2: Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) exemption for businesses who would like to provide financial assistance to employees residing in geographically isolated areas, to enable their children to attend boarding schools.
