$4 MILLION EXTRA TO SUPPORT STUDENTS WITH A DISABILITY

The Stanhope Government has allocated $4.153 million over four years to address the increasing support needs of students with a disability in ACT Government schools.  

The extra funding is in addition to the $4 million dollars provided in last years Budget and   brings the total commitment to supporting the needs of students with a disability in Government schools to $40 million a year.

The ACT Government is committed to ensuring that all children are able to participate fully in their education program. The $4 million provided in this budget will ensure that teachers and teachers’ aides in our schools are able to meet the individual needs of their students.

“The number of students with a disability has increased over the last three years and projections indicate this trend will continue.  The number of students with highly complex needs is also growing,” Minister for Education and Training, Ms Katy Gallagher MLA said.

There are currently 1667 students with a disability in Government schools all requiring varying levels of support, many of whom have very complex needs.  Assuming that the current rate of increase continues, it is projected that the number of students with a disability in Government schools would exceed 1900 by 2007.  

“All students benefit from a safe, supportive, welcoming and inclusive education environment.  The Stanhope Labor Government is committed to ensuring that all students are provided with a high quality education and the opportunity to realise their potential.” 

“The Student Centred Appraisal of Need process implemented in 2003 identifies the educational and support needs of students with a disability and allows these to be prioritised in the student’s individual learning plan.  Increased funding will improve the quality of support provided to address these needs,” Ms Gallagher concluded.
Statement ends