Newcastle Schools to Benefit from Historic $4.8 Billion Public Education Boost

Public schools across Newcastle are set to benefit from a landmark funding agreement between the Albanese and Minns Labor Governments, ensuring NSW schools receive full and fair funding over the next decade. The agreement, which will see an additional $4.8 billion invested in NSW public schools, is the largest commitment of its kind from the Commonwealth and will directly support students, teachers, and families in Newcastle’s 43 public schools.

Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, highlighted the impact this funding will have on the nearly 18,000 students in the region. Visiting Mayfield West Public School to discuss the announcement, Claydon said the deal represents a major step forward in providing the resources local schools need.

“This is a win for students, teachers, and families across Newcastle. This funding is not just about dollars—it’s about giving kids the support they need to thrive in the classroom and ensuring teachers have the resources to deliver the best education possible,” she said.

While the funding boost will significantly benefit local schools, its impact extends across the entire state. Under the agreement, the Commonwealth will increase its share of the Schooling Resource Standard (SRS) from 20 per cent to 25 per cent by 2034. NSW has already committed to reaching 75 per cent of the SRS by 2025, meaning public schools will be fully funded for the first time.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the investment is about securing the future of Australian students. “Building Australia’s future means investing in the next generation. Every dollar of this funding will go into helping children learn,” he said.

The funding will be tied to a series of evidence-based reforms designed to lift education standards. These include early literacy and numeracy assessments in Year 1, targeted tutoring for struggling students, increased access to mental health professionals, and measures to attract and retain teachers.

NSW Premier Chris Minns reinforced the importance of public education funding, stating, “Every child has the right to a quality, free public education. This investment will ensure that students have the best possible learning environment and that teachers have the support they need to succeed.”

Education Minister Jason Clare added that the funding was designed to drive measurable improvements, not just provide extra money. “This isn’t a blank cheque. It’s real funding tied to real reforms to help students catch up, keep up, and finish school,” he said.

Newcastle schools are already seeing improvements, with fewer teacher vacancies and reduced class cancellations since the NSW Labor Government took office. With this new funding agreement in place, local public schools will have the resources to continue improving student outcomes and delivering high-quality education.

This historic agreement follows similar deals with other states and territories, including Victoria, South Australia, and Western Australia, with negotiations ongoing with Queensland.