ICPA fears continued decline in distance education enrolments
The Isolated Children's Parents' Association (ICPA) says a drop in distance education enrolment numbers is an ongoing concern.
Figures from the Department of Education show while distance education enrolments for larger cities are on the rise, numbers in Mount Isa, Longreach and Charleville are all lower this year compared to 2010 figures.
Education Minister John Paul Langbroek says student numbers in all schools fluctuate over time due to a range of factors.
However, ICPA Queensland president Andy Pegler says numbers in the outback are declining.
"I believe it's a trend that has been going on for a long time as the population drops, particularly the population of the age that tends to have young families all throughout the west," he said.
"We see schools in most of our towns dropping enrolments, particularly the smaller towns.
"I can see no reason why they won't continue to drop.
"If you look at the 2005 figures or the 2000 figures I think you'll find a significant drop at each benchmark.
"I do think the declining trend is a concern for the future of rural Australia."