Jess Walsh (Victoria, Australian Labor Party, Minister for Early Childhood Education) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you, friend, for the question. Schools are back across the country. Many children have had their first ever day of school—including your gorgeous daughter, Zara. We wish them all the best. There are relieved parents, some nervous kids and teachers who are back in classrooms prepped and ready to go for the year ahead. As someone who proudly comes from a family of teachers, I know what this time of year feels like for them. They go back knowing that teaching isn't just a job; it is a calling. It's about giving all children every chance to reach their potential. That's why the Albanese Labor government is united in our commitment to our public schools.

For the first time ever, we have agreements to fully fund every public school student in Australia to a hundred per cent of their fair funding level. Through the better and fairer schools agreements, we're delivering an additional $16.5 billion in Commonwealth funding to public schools over the next decade—the biggest new injection of Commonwealth funding to public schools ever. This investment means stronger public schools, more support in classrooms and better outcomes for students, particularly those who need extra help. It also matters for families. Back-to-school costs are real, and properly funded public schools help ease pressure on household budgets while making sure every child gets a fair go, no matter where they live or what their parents earn.

None of this works without our nations' teachers. They do one of the most important jobs in this country. Our government is backing them with fairer funding, better support and a clear focus on what helps kids succeed. We are united in delivering stronger public schools and better outcomes for Australian kids.