ACT budget cuts hit disadvantaged schools hardest
Least-advantaged ACT public schools face budget cuts up to 25 per cent in 2027, while the wealthiest schools receive modest increases.
An analysis of budget data shows disparities in how the ACT Education Directorate's new funding model affects schools by socioeconomic status. Kingsford Smith School, in the 43rd percentile for advantage, will lose almost $3.5 million.
Caroline Chisholm (42nd percentile) will cut $1.5 million, and Theodore Primary (35th percentile) will lose about $300,000. Wealthier schools in the 96th percentile, Garran, Hughes and Aranda primaries, will receive budget increases of 4 to 8 per cent.
Two schools are already operating reduced timetables in term 4 because of staffing gaps. The Education Directorate says final 2027 budgets have not been decided and will be shaped by further talks with school leaders.
Why it mattersThe funding model creates what union leaders call "perverse outcomes" in which students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds lose support, contradicting the directorate's stated commitment to needs-based funding.
AustraliaCanberra students at disadvantaged schools may face larger classes, fewer services and shorter school weeks if the proposed budget cuts proceed.
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