Funding public schools
Funding public schools
Public school funding is allocated to schools based on the learning needs of students and school characteristics.
The model is the mechanism by which funding is allocated to public schools for each student enrolled and additional funding for students needing extra support.
For example, additional funding is provided for small and isolated schools, Aboriginal children, children facing social disadvantage, children with English as a second language and children with disability.
The objectives of the funding model are to:
- allocate resources based on the learning needs of students
- ensure funding is responsive to the needs of individual schools and their students
- increase flexibility for principals in relation to financial and workforce management decisions
- provide a simple and transparent funding mechanism.
Evaluation of the student-centred funding model
We engaged the Nous Group and Victoria University’s Centre for International Research on Education Systems to undertake the Evaluation of the Student-Centred Funding Model.
The evaluation assessed the extent to which the objectives of the model are being achieved, and identified where the model, processes and governance structures could be refined. It also measured the model in terms of international and national best practice as a needs-based school funding system.
Further information
Student-centred funding model
Professor Richard Teese from The University of Melbourne's Centre for Research on Education Systems talks about the in-depth review he undertook of Western Australia's public school funding mechanism.
The Funding Agreement for schools describes the expectations and reporting requirements of the school/principal in relation to receiving resources through the model and operating with a one-line budget.
For further information on the model refer to the overview of the Student-centred funding model.