A CMS missionary to the Northern Territory says the federal government's decision to fully restore travel and accommodation allowances to indigenous students for the next four years is "fantastic news'.
The Dean of Anglican Students at Nungalinya Bible College and CMS Missionary, the Rev Graeme Vines, is thankful for the restored funding.
"It's certainly an answer to prayer. We were feeling pretty weak, but it's when you feel weak that God answers prayers," he says.
In May this year Southern Cross reported that the Department of Education Science and Training (DEST) had reduced its funding to indigenous students attending short courses at the Darwin-based Nungalinya Bible College.
At the time, Mr Vines called the changes "short sighted' as these students are often leaders within their communities.
"The majority of people doing these courses come from Arnhem Land or isolated places and are in an economic situation where they can't afford to travel. They depend on the Abstudy grant," Mr Vines says.
Mr Vines estimates that up to 60 students will now be able to attend the college four times a year instead of only once.
"The students are delighted. Some Numbulwar students were still willing to come using their own money which would have cost them hundreds in travel," he says.
Mr Vines says new students are coming in each week.
"They're making the most of it. We have been bringing in students from Anglican communities in Numbulwar and Groote Eylandt. The classes are going to be fairly full this year which is what we want."
Mr Vines says the uncertainty of funding has been an issue for Nungalinya College for many years. However, he believes that under God the college will continue its function of giving essential ministry training to members of Aboriginal communities.
"Most people who are elders in their church or community aren't ordained. They appreciate coming in to widen their understanding of the Bible and ministry."
"We are thinking about who the communities want ordained and talking to the bishop to send them in to get training."
