Keeping youth in communities: Education and out-migration in the South West

The out-migration of youth is a particular concern facing rural communities.

A study of eight communities in the Blackwood region of South Western Australia demonstrates the key role of educational availability in encouraging the out-migration of people, especially young people, from rural areas. The study also highlights difficulties involved in university study for people who do not reside in a metropolitan area.

Finally, the study suggests three possible ways that access to educational services can be increased for people in rural towns: via innovative delivery styles, diversification of the client base, and differentiation of educational products.