The characteristics of, and motivations for, Indigenous student mobility: Examples from urban and regional Queensland, Australia

Using the notion that research should ‘enlighten’ policy responses, this paper considers the complex locational factors that affect and underlie patterns of Indigenous student mobility in Queensland, Australia. The paper presents data, captured through an action research project, to explore mobility ‘in and through’ two environments. In so doing, it argues that the complexity of local sites and experiences, and distinct ‘push-pull’ factors in remote, regional and urban settings, are critical considerations when developing a ‘policy package’ in response to Indigenous student mobility. In this regard, more effective use and analysis of administrative data are required.

► Comparison of mobility measures indicating invisibility of mobility in current measurement instruments. ► Examination of motivations for mobility in two locations. ► Mapping of spatial patterns of mobility in two locations. ► Charting of complexity of mobility and intersection with poverty and race.