The Australian government responds to report that almost 90,000 students not meeting the minimum standards for reading or numeracy.
PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION FINDINGS ON SCHOOLS
* Almost 90,000 students each year do not meet minimum standards for reading or numeracy
* Better definitions are needed for students experiencing educational disadvantage, such as those living in out-of-home care
* Schools are not always culturally safe spaces for Indigenous children
* Some LGBTQI students feel unsafe or uncomfortable at school
* The proportion of students who completed year 12 or equivalent increased slightly in recent years
* School attendance went backwards over the same period
* Indigenous students and young people living in regional and remote areas have lower attendance rates
* Teachers work long hours and have an increasing workload
* Teacher shortages in certain areas and across key subjects impose significant costs on students and schools
KEY RECOMMENDATIONS
* Governments must make inclusion the centrepiece of future education plans
* Better supports are required for parents to engage with their child's education
* Cultural integration is needed in schools for all students to see their identities, cultures and knowledge reflected in what and how they are learning
* Innovative technology should be embraced to provide better education access in regional and remote communities
* Student wellbeing ought be included in the next reform plan
* Stronger education targets should be set to keep governments accountable
* Improving school leadership will boost learning outcomes
GOVERNMENT RESPONSE
* Education Minister Jason Clare said the report made it clear serious reform was required
* State and federal education ministers agreed to establish an expert panel to provide advice on reforms
* Mr Clare will soon announce the panel members and their terms of reference