Opened the debate
Miller-Frost argued that education is a critical determinant of life outcomes, including health and economic participation. Miller-Frost stated that the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement provides an additional $16.5 billion over ten years, with a further $49 billion in the subsequent decade. The member emphasised that this funding is tied to reforms such as phonics and numeracy checks, and catch-up tutoring. Miller-Frost contended that needs-based funding ensures equity, allowing students from low-income or remote areas to access the same opportunities as their peers. Miller-Frost highlighted that public schools educate the majority of students facing challenges, and that full funding would reduce class sizes and support specialist services.