Public Education Day highlights Turnbull's disregard for our education future

On Public Education Day school communities will be reminded of the billions of dollars that stand to be slashed from thousands of schools across the country if Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s education agenda goes forward.

Dozens of school principals, teachers and education stakeholders are in Canberra today lobbying politicians and seeking their support for the current Gonski needs-based funding agreements.

Correna Haythorpe, Federal President of the Australian Education Union said this day reminds us of the stark reality of what is to come.

“How ironic is it that the Turnbull Government tables a Bill that will see $3.2 billion slashed from schools across our country during the week of Public Education Day?” said Ms Haythorpe.

“The Government’s policy clearly shows us that Prime Minister Turnbull and Education Minister Birmingham have turned their backs on the students and schools who were relying on the funds that were to be delivered in 2018 and 2019.

“The evidence is clear needs-based funding is working in our schools now, and closing education gaps for our most vulnerable students.

“We are here today to remind politicians – particularly crossbenchers – about the impact the Government’s policy will have on our school communities. It’s time Senator Nick Xenophon and the NXT, Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and the Greens come forward and renew their commitment to Gonski needs-based funding.

“Any politician who supports the Turnbull’s Government’s policy of education cuts will need to answer to their electorate. Every community across Australia will know the reality of these cuts and how it will impact their children.

“The time is now for politicians to step up for our children and their futures.

“While we celebrate the crucial work of principals, teachers and education support staff on Public Education Day, we are also reminded that cuts to education funding will not support our schools in regional and rural areas, nor children who need extra help across our country.

“Today we urge politicians from all parties to stand up for our school children and support the full implementation of Gonski needs-based funding,” said Ms Haythorpe.

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