ACOSS warmly welcomes the Albanese government's commitment to increase federal funding for public schools to 25%, finally delivering on the recommendations of the 2012 Gonski review.
"This should be a game-changer for public schools around the country which have been underfunded for so long," said ACOSS CEO Dr Cassandra Goldie.
Public schools educate two-thirds of students in Australia, including 80% of children from low socio-economic backgrounds, more than 80% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, more than two-thirds of children with disabilities and more than 67% of students from non-English speaking households.
"Education is a powerful tool in combatting inequality. By fully funding public schools, we can provide children with opportunities they deserve, leading to better outcomes for students and the country as a whole," Dr Goldie said.
"Investment in education is an investment in our shared future. It values every child and the role of public education for us all. It also reduces the pressure on health, mental health, and social service systems, boosting our communities as well as the economy."
ACOSS has long-supported the Australian Education Union's campaign to fully fund public education which plays a critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty and disadvantage.
A recent report by ACOSS and UNSW on material deprivation found children whose parents receive income support are far more likely to go without new school clothes, and regular hobbies because their parents can't afford them.
"Proper funding of public schools will help take pressure off parents and ensure disadvantaged children have the resources they need to succeed," Dr Goldie said.
