Investing in 21st century education
Building our Maths and Science knowledge
The Chief Scientist's report to the Prime Minister made recommendations to encourage students to study maths and science in school and at university.
The Government's response seeks to:
- enhance Australia's long–term human capital and productivity, with measures spanning school and tertiary education;
- promote quality maths and science teaching from primary school through to university;
- encourage high–performing students to continue their studies from school to university and ultimately on to careers in maths and science; and
- train more students in the fields that will be important to meet emerging skills needs and prepare Australian students for the 21st century.
Support for mathematics and science studies
The Government is providing $54 million to fund new initiatives in response to the Chief Scientist's report Mathematics, Engineering and Science in the National Interest. The Budget includes:
- a new Australian Mathematics and Science Partnership Program to support outreach from universities to schools;
- the development of innovative approaches to training prospective mathematics and science teachers; and
- assistance to foster long term partnerships between school teachers and scientists or mathematicians.
Demand driven funding and improved access for university students
The Budget provides an additional $23.4 million to help disadvantaged students succeed, increasing the total investment in the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program and other equity measures to over $1 billion over the next four years.
From 2012, Commonwealth funding for undergraduate places is entirely demand driven, with an additional $5.2 billion in Commonwealth funding for universities between 2010 and 2015 to fund the extra places.
Delivering quality schooling for all students
The Government has made record investments in schools, including providing upgrades to infrastructure at over 9,500 Australian schools and delivering a computer for every year 9 to 12 student across the country.
The Government is now working with all stakeholders in considering the proposals of the Gonski Review, to deliver the best and fairest funding model for all schools.