Our Story

Kaziw Meta is a culturally strong, community-led boarding facility located on Thursday Island, providing a safe home-away-from-home for Torres Strait Islander boarding students from some of the most remote outer islands in Australia.

Every year, over 75 boarders travel hundreds of kilometres by boat, plane and helicopter to access secondary education. Many come from small communities with no high school, and for them, Kaziw Meta is not just a boarding house. It’s a second family, a cultural hub, and a launching pad to a brighter future.

We live, learn, and grow together, guided by the strength of our culture, the wisdom of our Elders, and the dedication of our staff, most of whom are from the Torres Strait themselves. We run cultural and dance programs, leadership camps, tutoring sessions, wellness initiatives, and mentoring support - all designed to grow proud, confident Torres Strait leaders.

But the need is growing. Right now, over 200 youth from the outer islands are not engaged in school, simply because there aren’t enough culturally safe boarding placements available. Our young people deserve better.

Why We Need Your Support

While we receive some government support, Kaziw Meta runs on tight margins and relies heavily on grants and goodwill to keep our programs going. We’re currently expanding our facilities and developing new wrap-around support services - including mental health care, tutoring, and career transition programs - but we need your help.

Your donation will directly support:

Cultural Programs – language, dance, storytelling and Elders visits

Education Support – tutoring, school supplies, and mentoring

Wellbeing Initiatives – mental health care, physical activity programs, and healthy meals

Capacity Expansion – more beds for disengaged youth waiting for placement

Leadership Opportunities – camps, excursions, and travel for career exposure

What Your Support Means

By donating to Kaziw Meta, you’re helping keep young people connected to culture, on track with their education, and empowered to lead their communities into the future.

You’re not just giving money. You’re giving hope, belonging, and a chance to thrive.

Whether it's $10 or $1,000 - every dollar brings us closer to building a stronger, safer future for Torres Strait youth.

Please share our campaign and help spread the word.

Esso (thank you) for believing in our young people.