Question Time AU

Ministerial Statement

Better and Fairer Schools Agreement

House of Representatives · Thursday 26 March 2026

Official Hansard for this day (APH) · Read this debate on OpenAustralia

At a glance

Members of the Australian Labor Party delivered statements supporting the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, marking one year since all states and territories signed the ten-year deal. They argued that the agreement rectifies previous funding inequities by ensuring public schools receive fair funding comparable to private institutions. Speakers highlighted improvements in school attendance, NAPLAN results, and year 12 completion rates, attributing these gains to evidence-based reforms and increased investment. The debate concluded with the adjournment of the discussion.

Outcome

Debate adjourned.

Summary in reported speech - not a transcript. AI-generated, so check the official record before quoting.

How the debate unfolded

Opened the debate

Joanne Ryan (Lalor) (Australian Labor Party) ALP

Ryan argued that the agreement corrects a previous system that guaranteed full funding for private schools while capping Commonwealth contributions to public schools at 20 per cent. Ryan explained that the Student Resource Standard sets minimum funding levels, with base amounts of $14,467 for primary students and $18,180 for high school students, plus additional loadings for disadvantage. Ryan stated that the government aims to increase year 12 certification to 83.8 per cent and raise attendance rates to 91.4 per cent by 2030. Ryan emphasised that the agreement supports teachers and ensures transparency in how taxpayer funds are distributed across the education system.