The power of education: from surviving to thriving

THE House Standing Committee on Indigenous Affairs has tabled its long-awaited report into Indigenous education.

The inquiry, spanning two parliaments, provides an in-depth look into the educational opportunities available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students—considering both the challenges and achievements of students, schools, organisations, and communities across Australia. The committee is led by the Chair, Melissa Price MP.

“Education provides opportunities and choices for the future. Evidence shows that improving education outcomes is critical to improving quality of life for a community,” Ms Price said.

“There is no shortage of examples of Indigenous people who have worked hard to achieve significant education and employment outcomes, often overcoming substantial disadvantage to do so. Nonetheless, the gap in attendance and education outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students is an unavoidable fact that must be addressed.”

The report makes a number of recommendations regarding addressing barriers to achievement; improving cultural safety in schools and boarding facilities; ensuring gender equity of engagement and support programs; strengthening teaching and use of effective pedagogies; improving boarding facilities and standards; and improving access to financial support such as ABSTUDY.

As the Chair noted, “All children have a right to feel safe, included, valued and supported both at home and at school. So, the committee hopes that, by schools working together and building relationships with students, their families and communities, the barriers to achievement will diminish and Indigenous students will finally be able to grasp all of the opportunities afforded to them.”

The report has been published on the committee’s website.

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