Funding: the road to 100 per cent and beyond
Queensland Teachers' Journal, Vol 128 No 7, 29 September 2023, page no. 13
In Australia, the conversation about school funding is far from over. The Australian Education Union’s “For Every Child – Fully Fund State Schools” campaign is pushing for a crucial change: ensuring state schools receive 100 per cent of the schooling resource standard (SRS) as outlined in the 2012 Gonski report.
The campaign’s key demands are clear.
Fully funded by 2028: New agreements must guarantee that all state schools reach at least 100 per cent of the SRS by 2028.
A fair share from the federal government: Commitment to a minimum Commonwealth share of 25 per cent of the SRS by 2028.
Spending must be on schooling: Expenses unrelated to education provision, such as capital depreciation, should not be counted in the funding share.
New and upgraded schools: Establish a $350 million annual fund for state school facilities, scaling with growth and costs.
You may ask what has been happening to get the message across.
- We have been actively advocating for full state school funding by 2028 through various means. Our efforts have included:
- the Queensland launch of the campaign at the ALP Conference
- two weeks of intensive school visits with QTU members across targeted electorates with our HUGE mobile billboard
- discussions with numerous schools across Queensland through the amazing work of our Organisers
- local school and community events where we can sign-up new supporters
- advocacy campaigns with MPs at both state and federal levels
- attending the P&C Queensland Conference and working with its CEO to build allies in our parent and community groups.
The work is only just beginning. To get involved, visit the campaign’s website (https://www.foreverychild.au/) for more information or sign up as a supporter.
Discuss this vital issue with your colleagues, family, and friends to raise awareness about the need for fair funding for our state schools.
“For every child” is a call to ensure every child in Australia has equal access to quality education. It’s time to fully fund state schools and invest in our children’s future.