I have been very appreciative of all the support that parents have given in writing to their local Liberal MPs and Ministers, voicing concern regarding the proposed changes to private education funding for 2013.

As you may be aware, in light of widespread outrage the Education Minister has since been forced to water down the original policy. However, the implications remain serious.

The State Government now intends to freeze private education funding at current levels for the next four years. Although we are undoubtedly relieved that the full brunt of the policy changes have been restricted, as a community we must remain wary of the intentions of this Government and make sure they understand our position on this.

Given your already considerable support for all children being educated in NSW, by having your child attend a fee paying school, you may wish to make clear to the State Government your views on this decision. The Parents Council are advocating a number of methods:

• Seeking meetings with their local state member.
• Emailing and posting letters to the Premier, Minister Piccoli and local members.
• Voicing concern on talkback radio and through social media.

To quote from Dr Geoff Newcombe, Executive Director of the Association of Independent Schools of NSW, “It is very disturbing that a government would consider an overall funding cut of 8% to non-government schools (6%-53% for individual independent schools) at a time when there is a national focus on additional investment in education to lift teacher quality and improve student outcomes.”

I do remain concerned about the reduction of funding to all forms and systems of education. Cuts to state, private and TAFE education in NSW is extremely short sighted.

I will keep you informed of further communications and decisions for our community.

Yours sincerely
Dr David Mulford