Over 130 Queensland schools will now take part in the Federal Government’s Empowering Local Schools initiative, aimed at giving schools greater financial autonomy.

Federal School Education Minister, Peter Garrett, announced the participating schools earlier this week.

“Schools taking part will have greater local decision-making powers and will be able to direct resources to suit their own needs,” Mr Garrett said.

We are doing this because we know it works. Evidence from programs here and overseas demonstrates that when principals are empowered and the local community is more involved, student attendance and results often improve.”
As part of Empowering Local Schools:

  • Schools will have a greater say over staffing mix to meet local needs. Local Consultative Committees (LCCs) will plan and oversee local workplace changes, in consultation with school principals and unions
  • Schools will decide how to spend their grant based funding according to local priorities, with the removal of tied grants.
  • Schools will be encouraged to establish new school councils, and develop stronger links with parents and the wider community, to increase community involvement in decision making.
  • Philanthropic and community investment in schools will also be encouraged.

 

To view a list of participating Queensland schools and find out more about the program visit: www.deewr.gov.au/empowering-local-schools