Education sector celebrates as the government dedicates a plentiful portion of federal budget 2020-21 to rebuilding and securing the workforce of the future through investing in quality education.
The 2020-21 budget for the education sector is larger than ever before, as the government recognizes the importance of investing in apprenticeships, learning, VET and higher education as a central part of the Governments Economic Recovery Plan for Australia, as well as guaranteeing the essential services Australia depends on.
These services more specifically consist of supporting the education system of Australia through the continued provision of more VET and higher education places, funding for short courses and investing in the Research and Development sector. Furthermore, the employment services system will continue to be monitored and reworked in alliance with meeting the needs of job seekers across Australia.
What did the Education sector want and need from the Federal Budget 2020-21?
The education sector has seen devastating ripple effects from the outset and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Lock-downs, social-distancing, border closures and cuts in funding, are just some of the many unsettling disruptions the education sector has faced in recent months. With still many uncertain challenges lying ahead, it was crucial to the sector that enough funding was invested to rebuild the economy post Covid-19.
Moreover, in their pre-budget submission, Universities Australia called for a focus of attention on a number of different recommendations including; stabilization funding for the research work force, hardship support for international students, a more focused investment on Research and development programmes, more incentive to attract international investment and a focus on attracting and retaining talent onshore.
What did the Budget Deliver for The Education and Employment Sector?
There are a vast number of important investments listed in the budget, highlights include:
This sizeable budget is a welcome lifeline for the education sector and provides a sturdy foundation in rebuilding the workforce and economy of our future. Industry leaders just hope that this investment will be enough.
Written by Sophie Cunningham; 8th October 2020