The first national study of facilities for isolated Australian children living away from home was undertaken by the Commonwealth Schools Commission in 1981 and released in 1983. This document contains the conclusions, findings, and recommendations of the Commonwealth Schools Commission Working Party report. The results prompted the Commission to recommend a new joint program of $7.5 million a year for three years to help with the construction, upgrading, and replacement of facilities. The Commission also recommended an amendment to the States Grants (Schools Assistance) Act to permit student hostels to receive capital and special-purpose funds for facilities for isolated students. The study included all non-profit boarding schools and student hostels providing accommodations for students attending regular schools for tuition. The study revealed major deficiencies requiring immediate attention. The most urgent needs included the maintenance and upgrading of buildings, greater provision of indoor recreation facilities and study areas, and improved staff accommodation facilities to attract and keep reliable supervisory staff. The conclusions and recommendations are particularly relevant for Queensland, where families living in rural and isolated areas often face problems of educational disadvantage caused by lack of, or inadequate access to, learning opportunities and facilities. (BRR)