WA, feds invest $1.6bn in education

The state and federal governments have committed to invest $1.6 billion towards education in Western Australia, which will make it the first state where all public schools will be fully funded.

A statement of intent has been signed by both levels of government to increase funding for all WA public schools to hit 100 per cent on the School Resourcing Standard (SRS) by 2026.

The SRS is an estimate of total public funding for a school to meet its students’ educational needs.

Under the inter-governmental agreement, the federal government will add $777.4 million to its investments in WA schools from 2025 to 2029.

The state government has committed to invest the same amount, bringing the total funding for public schools to $1.6 billion.

According to the state government, the Commonwealth will provide 21.25 per cent of public-school funding in WA in 2025 and will increase it to 22.5 per cent in 2026, with the state to provide the remainder.

The federal government currently provides 20 per cent of funding in WA public schools.

“This new landmark agreement with the federal government takes support for our schools to the next level, ensuring no child in a WA public school is left behind,” Premier Roger Cook said.

Education Minister Tony Buti said the agreement would create a stronger public education system in the state.

“The increase in funding will drive real improvements in outcomes for all students, especially for students from low socio-economic backgrounds; regional, rural, and remote Australia; students with disability; First Nations students and students from a language background other than English,” he said.

“Any reforms will focus on improving equity and excellence in schools, supporting the wellbeing of students and teachers, and providing a strong and sustainable workforce of teachers and non-teaching school staff.”

Federal Education Minister Jason Clare said WA’s decision to work with the Commonwealth to fully fund public schools would drive a fairer education system.

“The statement of intent underlines our shared commitment to put all WA schools on a pathway to full and fair funding and invest in the reforms that will help children catch up, keep up and finish school,” he said.

“I look forward to working with all states and territories to properly fund our schools and build a better and fairer education system for all Australians.”