School funding on election agenda
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While South Australian Catholic schools are assured of an increase in State Government funding in 2018 regardless of the March 17 election result, Catholic Education SA is continuing to advocate on behalf of the 46,000 students in its schools.
Premier Jay Weatherill and Education and Child Development Minister Susan Close announced a major funding boost for Catholic and Independent schools late last year.
The increase of $14.3 million will take recurrent funding from $94.6 million in 2017 to $108.9 million in 2018. The Labor Government also committed to provide a capital grant of $5.5 million per year commencing in 2018 and indexed annually to the Consumer Price Index.
CESA Director Dr Neil McGoran said the Liberal Party had promised to honour Labor’s full commitment, including the funding increase beyond 2018.
While the news was welcomed by Dr McGoran, he and Professor Denis Ralph, Chair of the South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools, will continue to meet with politicians to discuss funding matters.
“There are a range of issues that are of significant importance to the students, staff and families of Catholic Education SA,” he said.
“We will continue to seek clarity on policies and election promises from all parties to help inform our community in the lead up to the election.”
Catholic Education SA will publish each party’s commitments on their website prior to the election so that school parents and the wider Catholic community can make an informed decision.
Announcing the funding increase at a media conference held at Rosary School, Prospect, Premier Weatherill said all students across the State should have access to a first class education.
“It is within the DNA of a Labor Government to ensure that all students have the right to reach their full potential,” he said.
“Our focus is on ensuring that the next generation has the education needed to prosper in the jobs of the future.”
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