The Minister Human Services and Senator for Queensland, Jan McLucas today officially opened AFL Cape York House in Cairns, a new facility which provides Indigenous students in Far North Queensland with a place to live and learn while they complete secondary schooling.
Senator McLucas said the Australian Labor Government invested $5.55 million through the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing towards the construction of AFL Cape York House, which supports up to 48 students from Year 8 to12.
“AFL Cape York House is making an enormous difference for young people from the remote Indigenous communities of Cape York Peninsula, Torres Strait and the Gulf regions,” Senator McLucas said.
“It gives Indigenous students safe accommodation while they live away from home to further their education, providing them with the best possible chance of getting a job and having a career.
“This facility not only gives students a place to sleep and eat, but it also engages them before and after school.
“Students attend partner schools and colleges in Cairns and have the opportunity to be involved in many out-of-school experiences, including sports, cultural pursuits, work and training.
“It aims to improve educational outcomes and life opportunities in a safe, culturally appropriate and secure environment.
“With the help of an education manager, careers manager and welfare support manager, students are able to develop their life skills, find employment opportunities and further their education.
“I am pleased to see that since it opened in January, 31 students are enrolled, with terrific results being seen.
“A number of the senior students have completed their resumes and have started the search for part-time work.
“Thank you and congratulations to the AFL, Education Queensland, Aboriginal Hostels Limited and the Western Cape Communities Trust for their support of this project.”
