AEU welcomes additional state disability funding

The Australian Education Union in Victoria welcomes the Andrews government’s allocation of additional funding for students with disabilities in schools and preschools, announced today.

“This $61 million funding goes some way to addressing the gaping funding gap that was left by the Turnbull Government when they slashed needs-based funding in Victoria by $630 million,” said Meredith Peace, president of AEU Victoria.

“Victorian schools and preschools continue to struggle to provide a quality education and individual support for students with disability, because they haven’t had the funding resources they need.

“This additional disability funding will mean more schools are able to provide specialist support, and assistance for teachers in the classroom. The additional funding for preschools will mean more vulnerable students will get access to early childhood programs and teachers will be able to access students more effectively for early intervention. According to our 2017 State of Our Schools survey 76 percent of schools do not have the resources to meet the needs of disabled students.

“We need to see long-term investment so we can improve participation and achievement of the thousands of Victorian students in government preschools and schools who have additional needs," said Peace.

The AEU commended the Andrews Government for working to address the shortfall left by the Turnbull Government. 

"We are pleased to see this funding package invest $19 million in early childhood initiatives. Students with disabilities have the best chance at success at school when they attend preschools and get the help and support they need early.

“Children with disabilities and their families deserve equal access to educational opportunities,” said Ms Peace.