Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King, today visited Ballarat High School to bring attention to how Liberal cuts are hurting our local schools.
“At this time of year, as school goes back, many parents are thinking about their kids’ education, and what the future holds,” Ms King said.
“Under Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals, Ballarat schools are missing out on vital materials and funding.
“Here at Ballarat High School student numbers are heading toward 1500 students.
“Without stable funding, at a level to support that number of students, they can’t plan for the future. They can’t build classrooms. They can’t support disadvantaged students. Most importantly, they can’t employ new teachers as student numbers grow.
“Needs based funding would make all these things possible and facilitate high quality education for every student, but Ballarat High has had to cut programs and support services because Malcolm Turnbull has decided to cut education funding.
“Nationwide, the Liberals are cutting $30 billion from schools – that’s like sacking one in seven teachers.
“Here in Ballarat, our schools will lose more than $26 million.
“These cuts will hurt our local schools. They’re already hurting Ballarat High School.
“Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals are cutting funding from schools because they think you should only get a good education if you can afford to pay.
“The Liberals can’t find money for schools, but they can find money for a big business tax cut.
“You can’t trust the Liberals on education.
“Labor believes getting a good education is the ticket to a lifetime of opportunity.
“Labor believes education is critical to ensure Australia has a strong economy with secure jobs.”