Launching the new Gonski campaign outside Keira High School on Monday, NSW Teachers Federation president Maurie Mulheron urged voters to consider Labor’s commitment to fund the final two years of the Gonski plan, while the Coalition prioritised tax cuts for the wealthy. The Wollongong launch was the first stop in a billboard campaign tour that took in Kiama, Bomaderry and the office of Gilmour MP Ann Sudmalis, and will extend to the rest of NSW in coming weeks. 

“It’s clear the Turnball government will not honour the NSW Gonski funding agreement,” Mr Mulheron said.

“At the last election the Coalition only promised about one third of the funding. If we continue on that journey we will not see schools brought up to the minimal resource standard that was recommended and the gap between disadvantaged and advantaged schools will grow wider.” 

Mr Mulheron said Labor had promised to invest $37.3 billion over the next 10 years to ensure every Australian school received funding on the basis of need.

“In an area like Cunningham that is $23 million and in the electorate of Gilmour that’s an additional $18 million. That’s significant funding that schools need.

“We know Gonski money is making a significant difference to children across NSW.

“It’s for realistic and worthwhile programs, and the results are already coming in. Principals are saying this funding is the best thing they’ve had in their career. For the first time they can provide students with specific needs the help they need and make sure they get the best education possible.”

He said the campaign would inform school communities about levels of funding to expect if Labor wins the July 2 election. 

“We’re taking that message to the community. We think having an educated population is the most critical issue facing this nation.”