Primary and secondary school students can be educationally disadvantaged by geographical isolation. The Country Areas Program (CAP) provides targeted funding to non-government education authorities in each state and the Northern Territory to help their schools improve student learning outcomes.
Non-government primary and secondary schools are eligible for funding under the CAP provided that they are located in geographically isolated areas, or are distance education facilities serving these areas. CAP funds are available for a wide range of projects; please refer to program information.
The non-government education authorities in each state and the Northern Territory are responsible for the detailed administration of the program and must allocate the funds according to the CAP objectives and the Administrative Guidelines. This must be on a transparent basis and with appropriate targeting, including arrangements for consulting with and ensuring the participation of key stakeholders in the planning and delivery of the program.
Please note:
From January 2009, Commonwealth funding to the states and territories for government schools will be delivered through the
National Education Agreement (NEA). As state governments are responsible for managing their schools and prioritising funding allocations all issues regarding funding should be directed to the relevant state/territory department of education.
Australian Government Contact Details for the Country Areas Program
The Director
Inclusive Education Strategies Branch
Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
GPO Box 9880
Canberra City ACT 2601
Telephone: (02) 6240 7867
Facsimile: (02) 6123 6321