Media Release, 20 February, 2012

Commenting at the release today of the much anticipated Gonski Report on Funding for Schooling, the Chair of the National Catholic Education Commission (NCEC), Mrs Therese Temby, said that this was just the start of the process, and much work remains to be done.

“This is a major piece of work and a roadmap for a way forward,” Mrs Temby said.

“There are key questions that remain unanswered. Substantial analysis needs to be done to test the model and the report’s recommendations.

“In its response to the report, the Government recognises that families face financial pressures and do not wish to see school fees rise beyond their reach.

“One in five Australian children attends a Catholic school, and Catholic schools already operate at 90% of the resources available in government schools.

“We will be working hard during the consultation phase to ensure we do not end up with a model that has the potential to put pressure on school fees for parents in Catholic schools.

“We strongly back the Gonski panel’s call for an additional $5 billion in funding for all schools,” Mrs Temby said.

“School funding reform of the magnitude suggested by the Gonski panel is not achieved by simply adjusting the current arrangements.

“We call on the Australian Government to show strong leadership by committing increased funding for schools sooner rather than later.

“We look forward to working with everyone with a stake in this enterprise. We all share a common goal to deliver high-quality education, and to provide every young Australian with the educational experiences they need to reach their potential.”

ENDS

Media contacts: Adrienne Day 0412 149911, Stephen Hodge 0411 149911