Australia's education system is experiencing a significant shift, with a growing number of parents opting for private schooling over public institutions. This trend, which sees 64.5% of students attending public schools last year compared to 69% two decades ago, places Australia as an outlier among OECD nations, where the average public school attendance stands at 80%.
The move towards private education is exacerbated by a funding model that critics argue disproportionately benefits the private sector. Tom Greenwell, co-author of 'Waiting for Gonski: How Australia Failed its Schools', suggests that governments have actively chosen to provide non-government schools with a resource advantage, making them more attractive to parents. This creates a perceived two-tier system, where public schools often struggle with fewer resources compared to their private counterparts.
The Gonski review, published in 2011, aimed to address funding disparities in Australian education. However, a decade on, its recommendations have not been fully implemented. This failure has left many public schools under-resourced, leading some parents, such as Michael Dukes from Coffs Harbour, to feel compelled to move their children to private schools despite the financial strain. Dukes, for instance, now works two jobs to cover annual fees of approximately 16,160 AUD for his children's private education, citing better facilities and support for his son's additional learning needs as key motivators.
The disparity in resources can be stark. Dukes noted that his children's private school boasted new Apple computers and comprehensive music, swimming, and drama programmes, contrasting sharply with their previous public school which had cancelled its swimming carnival and struggled to provide basic supplies. This perceived gap in provision is a significant factor for parents concerned about their children's educational experience and opportunities.
Furthermore, a decision by the Turnbull government in 2017 to cease funding for public school infrastructure, devolving responsibility to individual states, has compounded the issue. This came despite the Gonski review highlighting that poor public school facilities were contributing to increased private school enrolments. The ongoing debate surrounding educational funding and resource allocation continues to shape the choices Australian parents make for their children's future.
While the stated aim of the current funding model was to offer parents greater choice, many, like Dukes, feel their options are limited by the perceived shortcomings of the public system. The financial burden of private education is significant, yet for some, it is seen as a necessary investment to ensure their children receive adequate support and opportunities that they believe are lacking in underfunded public schools.
Source: The Guardian (Australia)