Education policy can either worsen or offset social disadvantages. It can bridge or widen gaps, and it can drive or impede social mobility. With a focus on equitable, needs-based funding, this report argues for increased investment in public education as the key to reversing Queensland’s declining education outcomes.

Key findings

• Case studies confirm that needs-based education funding works, transforming the prospects of students from socially-disadvantaged communities.
• Social disadvantage can be addressed through targeted investment in schools and teaching.
• Queensland can maintain both high quality results and equal access and support for students through affordable policy measures.
• Equity and excellence in Australia’s lagging education system is achievable with policy measures that support students and teachers. 

Policy recommendations to government

1. Increase the Commonwealth share of school resource standard payments to at least 25 per cent;
2. Embed school autonomy and local consultation in expenditure of schooling resource standard payments;
3. Develop a reporting mechanism that is both qualitative and recognises school difference; and which mitigates workload of school leaders and
4. Invest in professional collaborative time.