Tasmania has been a strong supporter of the Gonski 2.0 model from the outset because it has been based on true needs based, sector blind funding – it is our strong position that these principles must be maintained and not compromised through any deals which preference one sector over another.
If the Federal Government are willing to expand the funding envelope, then our Government schools deserve more recognition.
The fact is, Tasmanian students experience the highest levels of disadvantage in the country – and recognition of disadvantage should be applied across every education sector.
The Australian Government, through bilateral negotiations with Tasmania, now has an opportunity to further recognise and fund the Government school system in Tasmania, and in particular recognise the unprecedented funding levels this State is applying to education, particularly in the early years to help break the cycle of disadvantage.
Tasmania is in a position to negotiate hard when it comes to bilateral negotiations with the Commonwealth because we can demonstrate significant investments into improvements in our system that are making a real difference, such as early years and extension schools, not to mention 250 additional teachers over 6 years.
More Media Releases from Jeremy Rockliff
More Media Releases from the Minister for Education and Training