More than a trip: YHA’s mission to empower young Australians

Meanwhile, YHA Australia’s foundation, Travel to Learn, is removing financial and geographic barriers so regional students, who would otherwise miss out, can join their classmates on excursions that supports their education while building confidence, maturity and independence.

To date in 2025, the program has approved grants for 99 students, directing $64,176 to schools to cover accommodation, transport, meals and activities for young people. The model is simple. Teachers plan their city excursion, and if a student cannot afford to go, the school applies for a Travel to Learn grant that covers the full cost for that student, so no one is left behind.

This year, the program also funded six on-site workshops with education partners Banish, Batyr and Consent Labs. Philanthropic support helped with extending that reach, with $15,000 from the James N. Kirby Foundation, and $10,000 from the Marian and E. H. Flack Trust.

Among recipients, a school from the NSW Northern Rivers region brought a mixed Year 9 and 10 group to Sydney for a three-day civics and culture program. Three students were at risk of not attending due to family financial stress. Travel to Learn funded their places, and the school took part in a Consent Labs session at YHA during the visit. Teachers reported stronger peer connection, first-time city navigation skills and a clear lift in confidence for the students who received grants. One student who benefited from a Travel to Learn Grant said: “the university visit really opened my eyes. I never thought Sydney Uni was even an option - but now it feels possible.”

While Travel to Learn is new, the ambition is big. The foundation aims to eventually support 370 disadvantaged young people each year through grants and employment pathways, turning purpose into practical outcomes.

This helps young people take their first steps beyond home and brings high quality learning within reach of schools that need it most.