New report shows welcome – but insufficient – increase in funding

AUSTRALIA – A new report launched at the Australian Education Union (AEU) Federal Conference reveals Commonwealth funding for public schools has increased under the Rudd Government.

AEU federal president, Angelo Gavrielatos welcomed the increase, but said it was still insufficient to redress the chronic underfunding of public schools.

“While we do acknowledge what is the first serious investment in public schools in over a decade, this must be put in perspective,” Mr Gavrielatos said.

Dr Jim McMorrow’s report, Updating the evidence: The Rudd Government’s intentions for schools, projects that the share of Commonwealth funding for public schools will increase from 35 per cent to 37.1 per cent by 2011-12.

“Although positive, this increased share of funding for public schools will still be lower than the 43.1 per cent that applied when the Howard Government took office.

“Public schools require an additional $1.4 billion to restore the 1995-96 funding share of Commonwealth funding.”

Mr Gavrielatos said the increased funding to address underachievement associated with socio economic disadvantage was necessary, but it was inadequate.

“Public schools must not only be resourced to address underachievement, but also to lift the overall performance of all students.

“This is central to strengthening social inclusion and the productivity of the nation,” Mr Gavrielatos said.