Classroom Disruption

Ryan criticised the motion as lacking evidence and argued that the Commonwealth does not run schools, which are managed by states. Ryan stated that the Victorian funding deal was signed, ensuring state schools would receive 25 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard. Ryan accused the opposition of hypocrisy, noting they had previously capped Commonwealth contributions to state schools at 20 per cent while not capping private school funding. Ryan argued that student behaviour issues require professional teaching and hard graft, not federal interference, and dismissed the mover's experience as insufficient to claim expertise.

Ware supported the motion, commending the mover for raising the issue and highlighting the government's failure to act on Senate inquiry recommendations. Ware noted that the inquiry suggested strengthening the focus on behaviour within the Australian curriculum. Ware cited examples of classroom disruption, such as mobile phone use, and mentioned that New South Wales had banned mobile phones in classrooms. Ware listed several schools in her electorate to illustrate the importance of supporting teachers and argued that the government was ignoring reports from both sides of the House.

Burnell acknowledged the importance of the subject matter but credited the government for addressing the root causes through funding. Burnell highlighted a historic agreement with South Australia to fully fund public schools to 25 per cent of the Schooling Resource Standard, representing an estimated $1 billion investment over 10 years. Burnell argued that the opposition had ignored these issues for nine years and that the Gonski review recommendations were now being implemented. Burnell emphasised that proper funding supports teacher retention and helps tackle disadvantage, citing the work of principals and staff in his electorate.