UNDERSTANDING
THE FUNDING AGREEMENTS

THE CURRENT SITUATION

For too long, Australian public schools have operated below the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) - the minimum funding level required to meet every student's educational needs. In 2024, 98% of public schools were funded below this standard, creating inequity across our education system.

What's changed

Through sustained campaigning, we've secured commitments that will transform public education:

Federal Commitment:

  • Increase from 20% to 25% of SRS funding
  • $16.5 billion additional investment (2025-2034)
  • Historic high in federal education contribution

State/Territory Commitments:

  • Progressive increases to reach 75% of SRS
  • Seven state and territory governments have signed agreements
  • Clear timelines for reaching full funding

The 2034 Goal:

By 2034, every public school should receive its SRS funding - a combination of federal and state/territory contributions. The agreements provide a decade of guaranteed funding increases. This means:

  • More support for students with additional needs
  • Additional help for students with literacy and numeracy
  • More school counsellors and support staff
Parent and child walking to school
Achieving excellence
Building the future
Every student succeeds
Giving teachers time
Improving wellbeing
Supporting children

WHAT
THIS
MEANS
FOR
SCHOOLS

NEXT STEPS

Understanding is just the beginning. See our Funding Priorities to learn how this investment should be used to maximum effect.

FUNDING PRIORITIES