That ICPA (Aust) advocate to the relevant bodies to provide a subsidy for rural and remote boarding and tertiary students accessing flights in areas of Australia where no student fare is available.
Attending boarding school or tertiary education away from home presents many challenges for families. Getting students home during term breaks, exeats, or university holidays has become increasingly more difficult and expensive.
Many boarding and tertiary students are faced with the situation where they must travel large distances by long bus journeys or in private vehicles, significantly reducing their time at home. There are locations throughout the state where flights could shorten travel distances considerably; however, the high cost of airfares often prevents families from being able to use them.
Time at home is vital for the well-being of both boarding and tertiary students, especially given the limited opportunities they have to be in their home environment. Reducing travel time through more affordable flight options would ease the stress on families and improve the mental health and wellbeing of these students.
