Mr Mulheron wants schools to begin engaging the community to help push for a commitment by the federal government for the final two years of the six-year funding model ahead of the next election.

"We think Gonski is to education what Medicare is to health ... this is really launching what we'll be doing in the Illawarra. If Gonski is not fully funded, students and schools with the most need for assistance will be hardest hit."

Mr Mulheron said 87 per cent of the nation's poorest children attended public schools, arguing that education was based on equity not privilege.

A child's potential might never be realised if their access to education was hindered, he said.

Illawarra Teachers Association president Elizabeth Scott said this was particularly relevant for this region with several "large pockets of low socioeconomic communities" and a large number of children with disabilities.

"Children with a disability now aren't getting the loading they were promised, so there are children ... who aren't getting their needs met - so not having special equipment, a teacher's aide, being in a support class, whatever their particular needs are," she said.

"High unemployment is not helping schools cope with any kids - whether they've got disabilities or not - but it certainly makes it difficult for parents ... they've got so many issues to deal with, as opposed to people who are educated and tend to be more proactive and confident about supporting their children."

Ms Scott called on association members to go back to their schools and do something to highlight the need for full funding on Public Education Day next Thursday.

The union has promised to keep lobbying both state and federal governments.