JOY Burch has strongly rejected any plans to make parents pay for public education in Australia.
A leaked discussion paper has lead to reports that some families could be required to pay for their children to attend public schools. The paper was developed within the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.
“Universal free public education is one of the hallmarks of a developed society,” Joy said.
“Public education is free and available to all, and that is the way it always should be. Any notion to change that is unacceptable.
“As ACT Education Minister, I will fight any move to means-test or charge for public education. I won’t support it here in Canberra or in any other jurisdiction in Australia.”
Joy called on all other jurisdictions to reject the proposal and recommit to the Gonski Review.
“If the Federal Government is looking for a real model with which to fund public education in Australia, they need look no further than the Gonski Review.”
“The Gonski Review comprehensively showed how all schools in Australia need to be funded.
“It is disappointing that not only has the Federal Government continually refused to commit to years five and six of Gonski funding, but they now appear to be discussing removing any support for public schools altogether.
“We have the greatest public school system in Australia, and that strength has come from our increased investment in support for students and improved facilities.
“This Government won’t support any compromise of our nation-leading education system.”
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