COALITION TO CUT PROGRAMS THAT SUPPORT TEACHING STUDENTS

The Coalition’s costings have revealed plans for cuts to the Commonwealth Prac Payment, Initial Teacher Education, and student debt relief, moves that will negatively impact teaching students and teaching graduates at a time when we have a national teacher shortage.

The costings show $556 million will be cut from the Commonwealth Prac Payment program, and $250.8 million will be cut from an unannounced item called the “High Quality Graduate Diplomas of Education”, signalling the Coalition’s plans to undermine current teaching qualification requirement.

AEU Federal President Correna Haythorpe said the future of our education system depends on investing in Australia’s teachers, not cutting programs that support them and are designed to attract teachers into the profession.

“These are disappointing and short-sighted cuts the Coalition will make, if elected,” Ms Haythorpe said.

“The Commonwealth Prac Payment helps relieve financial pressure on student teachers who give up paid work to complete essential teaching placements. Removing it sends a clear message that the Dutton Government does not value the work or contribution of future teachers.”

“Similarly, scrapping student debt relief will hurt those studying and recently graduated teachers who would benefit from that cost of living relief.”

“At a time when recruiting and retaining teachers for public schools is critically important, particularly in rural and regional areas, the decision to slash support for Australia’s future teachers is both irresponsible and damaging.”

“So is undermining the education of teachers with secret plans to lower teaching qualifications.”

“We urge voters to stand up for public education this election. Teachers can’t risk a Dutton Government.”

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT:

Kylie Jensen – 0402 298 728