Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

The incorporated speech read as follows—

The 2026 school year has begun, and I acknowledge the remarkable work happening in classrooms right across Australia—and particularly in the vibrant schools of my electorate of Pearce—while highlighting the Albanese Labor government's record investment in public education through the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement. This time of year always fills our communities with energy and optimism. Across Pearce, students are settling into classrooms, teachers are welcoming students, and families are returning to routines that form the rhythm of our daily lives. Behind every one of these moments are the dedicated principals, teachers, education assistants and support staff who make our schools such important hubs of community life. Their care and commitment ensure that every child in Pearce, and across our nation, has the opportunity to reach their potential.

This year also marks the beginning of a historic new chapter for Australian public education. The Better and Fairer Schools Agreement represents the largest Commonwealth investment in public schools by any government in Australia's history. This is a record investment—one that reflects the Albanese Labor government's unwavering belief that every child, in every classroom, deserves an excellent education, no matter where they live or what their circumstances may be. Importantly, this is an agreement built on fairness and results. It is a partnership with states and territories that ensures record funding is delivered alongside genuine reforms—reforms that will lift student outcomes in literacy, numeracy and student wellbeing, while supporting teachers to focus on teaching and learning. We know that education is one of the greatest equalisers in our society, and we have a responsibility to make sure that every student, in every community—whether in Butler, Wanneroo, Two Rocks or Kinross—has equal access to opportunity. That is what this agreement delivers.

We all know that great schools rely on great teachers. Teachers are the heart of our education system, inspiring, guiding and empowering students every single day. I have had the privilege of visiting many schools across Pearce, and, in every conversation I have with teachers, one theme is constant: their deep dedication to their students. We owe these teachers not just our gratitude but our support. That is why the Albanese Labor government is taking practical action to tackle teacher shortages, improve training and make teaching a sustainable and rewarding profession. Encouragingly, new data shows more Australians are choosing to study teaching—a sign that our initiatives are working. Through the Commonwealth paid prac initiative, student teachers are now being paid during their practical placements, easing financial pressure and helping more people complete their degrees. Commonwealth teaching scholarships are opening doors for capable, passionate Australians to enter the profession and stay there. Our reforms to strengthen initial teacher education are ensuring graduates are well prepared for the classroom from their very first day.

I also want to acknowledge the national effort underway to prevent and respond to bullying in schools. A safe and inclusive learning environment is essential for every child's success. Whether it's in the schoolyard, the classroom or online, bullying has no place in our communities. In Pearce, our local schools are showing real leadership in this area—with student wellbeing programs, peer support initiatives and mental health partnerships that create safer, kinder learning environments. The Albanese Labor government continues to work closely with states, territories and school communities to support these efforts and ensure every child feels safe, respected and valued.

Education is about more than academic success—it's about helping children grow into confident, compassionate and capable young Australians. Through the Better and Fairer Schools Agreement, we are making that vision a reality. We are investing in schools, supporting our teachers and strengthening the foundation of our education system in a way that will deliver lasting benefits for students in Pearce and across the nation. When I visit local schools, I see firsthand how vital those investments are. I see new classrooms being built, teachers innovating with new technologies and students developing the skills they will need for the jobs of the future. These are the real-world results of the government's commitment to a better and fairer education system.

I am proud to represent a community that values education so deeply and that works so collaboratively to give every child the best start in life. The Albanese Labor government will continue to deliver on our commitment to fairness, quality and opportunity—because every child, every family and every community deserves nothing less.

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