Not the whole truth
In the upcoming federal election, the Coalition claims there has been record spending on education. However, Scott Morrison is not telling the whole truth.
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Because of its failure to implement the Gonski funding model in its entirety, our local public schools have missed out on crucial funding. Combined, the three local government secondary high schools - Murray, James Fallon and Albury - will miss out on nearly $3 million. This money is critical for spending on literacy and numeracy programs, technology and a myriad of resources that our students need.
It should also be noted that this government has capped federal funding for public schools at a miserly 20 per cent. That means 80 per cent of funding goes to private schools, many of them elite institutions that are already awash with millions of dollars from 'private' donations. No other country in the world spends less money proportionately on public education at a federal level than the Morrison government.
Finally, even though Sussan Ley presides over an electorate with a disproportionate number of lower socio-economic and isolated schools, she voted against implementing the Gonski recommendations which would have seen these schools and their students receive an extra $25 million over three years. It appears our honorable member is content to see money channeled to the wealthiest schools rather than to the more needy schools and students in her own electorate.
Craig Jory, Glenroy
Water, but what else?
I have followed with interest the proposed priorities of the regional candidates in Farrer and Indi for the imminent federal election - major parties, minor parties and independents, and noted their various policies and visions.
My concern is with the Independent candidate for Farrer, Kevin Mack. It would appear Mr Mack is basically running on a single platform, the Murray-Darling Basin water issue. This gives rise to questions. As an Independent, what can he do to resolve this issue? Given the case that this issue is resolved or conversely remains status quo, then what other policies will Mr Mack bring forward for the betterment of the people in his electorate? The voters of Farrer need to have this knowledge to make an informed choice.
Peter Dent, Thurgoona
A thanks to all
The Rutherglen RSL sub-branch extends its appreciation to the community of Rutherglen and surrounding districts for the support provided on Anzac Day 2019.
To Indigo Shire staff for the magnificent presentation of the Memorial Park, Lions Club for serving breakfast after the Dawn Service, local singers Katie Hurley and Boe O'Brien for their exceptional renditions of the Australian and New Zealand National Anthems, members of the Army contingent from Latchford Barracks, police members and the RSL Ladies Auxiliary, local schools and businesses, and most importantly the local population who assembled in ever increasing numbers.
It is important that as a community we continue to remember the efforts of all those who fought and died for our country and the Rutherglen community continually sets an example of how this important date should be remembered. Thank you one and all.