NSW public schools receive baseline funding from the state government as well as additional funds based on the Resource Allocation Model (RAM), which considers factors such as disability support, Aboriginality, small schools, and socio-economic adjustments. Educational economist Adam Rorris noted that more public money goes towards supporting students from less advantaged backgrounds, but factors such as school size can also impact funding. In affluent areas, students may have better access to diagnoses for conditions such as dyslexia and ADHD, leading to increased funding for schools in those areas.
Research from the UK has found that children from wealthier homes are more likely to be diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, which can influence the funding allocation for schools. The prevalence of students with social-emotional and cognitive disabilities is increasing, with about one in four students having some form of disability. Centre for Independent Studies researcher Glenn Fahey emphasized the importance of transparency in funding allocation to ensure that resources are being used effectively to support students, regardless of their background.
Clinical psychiatrist Dr. Lisa Myers highlighted the financial barriers to obtaining diagnoses for conditions like ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, which can be costly and inaccessible to some families. She called for equal funding for all schools to support students with these disabilities. A spokesperson for Car mentioned that the government is considering changes to the funding of public schools, aiming to ensure support is directed where it is most needed. The goal is to reach 100% of the schooling resource standard for NSW public schools by negotiating with the Commonwealth government to increase funding to 25% of the standard.
The federal government currently funds 20% of the schooling resourcing standard, which was established in 2011 to estimate the public funding needed for schools to meet students’ educational needs. NSW is working towards increasing this funding to 25% by collaborating with the Commonwealth government. Improved transparency in funding allocation and support for students with disabilities, regardless of their socio-economic background, are key considerations in the ongoing discussions around school funding in NSW. Efforts are being made to ensure that all schools have the resources they need to provide quality education to their students, regardless of their circumstances.
