SCHOOLS FOR OUR FUTURE INQUIRY VISITS VICTORIA

The AEU’s National Inquiry into public school capital infrastructure is travelling to Victoria, investigating the powerful impact of investing in high-quality facilities and the real pressures facing public schools across the state.

Today and tomorrow the Schools For Our Future inquiry, chaired by Sharan Burrow AC, will hear directly from teachers, principals and education stakeholders through school visits and roundtables, ensuring that the experiences of those on the ground shape future decisions about capital investment.

“This inquiry is uncovering what works, and the areas that need improving when it comes to public school capital infrastructure,” Ms Haythorpe said.

“Teachers, principals, and education support staff know what their students need. This process gives them a direct voice to explain how infrastructure affects everything from delivery of the full curriculum to student wellbeing.”

“We’ve already seen across the country that when governments invest in modern classrooms, specialist facilities and inclusive design, we see stronger student engagement, better learning outcomes and improved working conditions for teachers,” Ms Haythorpe said.

The 2025 AEU’s State of Our Schools survey revealed that Victorian principals report:

• 27% of public schools do not have adequate classrooms to meet enrolment demand and need an average of 5.5 additional classrooms each
• 44% expect to run out of classroom space within the next 3–5 years
• 66% of schools are using temporary or demountable classrooms, with an average of 9.6 per school
• Only 24% of principals say they can deliver the full curriculum with current infrastructure

The AEU said the inquiry highlights the need for ongoing Commonwealth funding for public school infrastructure, noting that Victoria has carried a disproportionate share of the cost.

“We have outstanding examples of what high-quality school infrastructure can achieve, but too many schools are being held back by underinvestment,” Ms Haythorpe said.

“No state government should have to bear the brunt of capital infrastructure costs for public schools alone. We need the Federal Government to step up and be a genuine partner in funding the schools our communities need.”

“Every student deserves to learn in a safe, modern and fully equipped school, regardless of their postcode. This inquiry is an important step towards making that a reality.”

Submissions to the inquiry are now open, and can be made via the website: https://www.schoolsforourfuture.org.au/make-a-submission

The Inquiry is seeking submissions from students, teachers, principals, support staff, parents and family members, governments, organisations and individuals with an interest in education and the future of public schools.

ENDS

Media Contact: Kylie Jensen 0402 298 728