With schools returning across Victoria this week, the Liberals and Nationals wish students, teachers, school staff and families all the best for the year ahead.
Unfortunately, under the Allan Government, students return to the classroom in a worse position and with a poorer outlook than when they left last year.
With nearly 800 teaching and classroom support roles currently vacant across the state, Labor’s teacher shortage crisis will continue to deny students the high-quality education they deserve.
This year parents and school communities will also see more of their fundraising dollars being spent on basic school works while school budgets are raided by the Department.
All this is happening as a recent report revealed Melbourne is the most expensive city in Australia to educate a child in a government school.
On top of the additional costs on families, the Allan Government has flagged cuts to education in the upcoming State Budget as Victoria’s net debt is set to reach $177.6 billion by 2026-27 – more than New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania combined.
Shadow Minister for Early Childhood and Education, Jess Wilson, said: “Students and families starting their school journey today deserve the best education.
“Under Labor, Victoria has a teacher shortage crisis, finance changes that will shift costs onto parents and pending cuts to school budgets.
“This is not the path to reversing record low literacy, maths and science outcomes, or ensuring every student is supported to reach their full potential.
“Instead of making life harder for Victorian students and families, the Allan Government must ease cost pressures and deliver an education that equips young Victorians with the skills they need for life.”
