Measures to provide a degree of funding certainty for Independent school communities were welcomed by the Association of Independent Schools of New South Wales (AISNSW), following the announcement today by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and the Minister for Education, Dan Tehan, on the future funding arrangements for non-government schools.
Chief Executive of AISNSW, Dr Geoff Newcombe AM, said it was particularly important for Independent schools to have certainty of funding for 2019 so they could finalise their planning for next year.
"It was acknowledged that the proposed new funding model was based on a sector-blind approach which did not favour one school sector over another and is viewed by all key stakeholders as being fair and reasonable."
However, there remained significant and complex technical issues that need to be addressed in order to be fully implemented in 2022.
The funding package includes new arrangements which will allow Independent schools some flexibility and choice, giving school communities greater scope to plan and make any necessary adjustments to their operations.
The proposed Choice and Affordability Fund will ensure Australian families continue to have choice and equity in schooling for their children.
While there are significant issues still to be resolved the independent schools sector is confident that with the same degree of goodwill displayed in the recent negotiations, these can continue to be worked through and result in a funding model that is fair and equitable.
"We look forward to working closely with the Minister and the Department of Education and Training on this important process, and have appreciated the manner in which they have listened to the concerns raised and sought to address them," said Dr Newcombe.
"This is a pleasing outcome which started with Minister Birmingham’s determination to implement a funding model that was sector-blind and Minister Tehan has continued this good work with his pragmatic and considered approach."
