❓ Mr Waldron questions the Minister for Education about the increasing gap between boarding fees and government assistance for regional students, impacting their ability to complete Year 12. The Minister acknowledges the issue and promises consideration during the budget process, highlighting funding constraints and Commonwealth contributions.
AnsweredQoN 378Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
The minister has just been talking about fee burdens and retention rates. Given that the Labor Government believes that every Australian child should have access to a high-quality, free and secular public education, I ask - (1) Is the minister aware that the gap between the Country High School Hostels Authority fee and the available state and commonwealth government assistance for boarding away from home continues to increase, and in some instances is as high as $1 800 a child? (2) Is the minister aware that this additional cost impost on regional and remote families, particularly during times of drought, is seriously affecting the ability of some children in these areas to continue their schooling through to year 12? (3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(1) Is the minister aware that the gap between the Country High School Hostels Authority fee and the available state and commonwealth government assistance for boarding away from home continues to increase, and in some instances is as high as $1 800 a child? (2) Is the minister aware that this additional cost impost on regional and remote families, particularly during times of drought, is seriously affecting the ability of some children in these areas to continue their schooling through to year 12? (3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(2) Is the minister aware that this additional cost impost on regional and remote families, particularly during times of drought, is seriously affecting the ability of some children in these areas to continue their schooling through to year 12? (3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House -
Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(1) Is the minister aware that the gap between the Country High School Hostels Authority fee and the available state and commonwealth government assistance for boarding away from home continues to increase, and in some instances is as high as $1 800 a child? (2) Is the minister aware that this additional cost impost on regional and remote families, particularly during times of drought, is seriously affecting the ability of some children in these areas to continue their schooling through to year 12? (3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(2) Is the minister aware that this additional cost impost on regional and remote families, particularly during times of drought, is seriously affecting the ability of some children in these areas to continue their schooling through to year 12? (3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(3) Will the State Government increase its boarding allowance to help meet the shortfall in 2003? (4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(4) If not, why not? Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
Mr A.J. CARPENTER replied: I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
I thank the member for Wagin for the question. (1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
(1)-(4) I am sure the member would be the first to admit that the Government is doing a lot for schools in country areas, particularly in the member’s district. The Government’s efforts to provide a high-quality education in rural areas in Western Australia are recognised by the local communities. They also have ongoing issues, obviously, but they recognise that we are doing what we said we would do; that is, try to provide all students with a high-quality, world-class education, no matter where they are in Western Australia. There is no shying away from that commitment. The Country High School Hostels Authority has provided an excellent service over the years in providing accommodation for students at country locations such as Narrogin, Katanning, Geraldton, Albany and so on. However, there are obviously financial barriers and financial impediments to meeting the aspirations of every parent. I recognise that there are circumstances afoot at the moment in some parts of rural Western Australia that are making things particularly difficult for groups of parents. I am more than happy to look at ways in which we could support them. In the budget process, we will give due consideration to whether it is possible to provide an increase to the living-away-from-home allowance. However, I will not say here today that that is what we will do. I recognise that it is an issue. People from a variety of rural locations in Western Australia have contacted my office and me about this issue, and have in fact met with me, including a delegation that came with the Western Australian Farmers Federation at one stage. As I said to the member who asked the question, we will examine this issue. I will give it due consideration in the budget process that we are about to commence. Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House - Mr C.J. Barnett: He must have a good press secretary. Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
Every member in this Chamber knows that Western Australia is a vast State that is sparsely populated. The Government is statute bound to provide educational and other public services to everybody in Western Australia. However, it is a very expensive task and our means are limited. We rely to a large extent on financial support from the Commonwealth Government, which in recent years has not been as generous as all of us would have liked. For example, I note that yesterday the federal Minister for Education, Science and Training, Dr Brendan Nelson, with whom I have what I consider to be a cordial personal relationship, announced a $4 million package to elevate the performance of boys in schools in Australia. A $4 million package for schools in Australia is an absolute pittance. When I announced some months ago a Family Links program, specifically to engage parents of students who struggle in our government schools - a $4 million package in Western Australia alone - as I recall, it received one paragraph of coverage in The West Australian under the “News in Brief” section, whereas yesterday, strangely enough, Dr Brendan Nelson’s announcement gained quite good coverage. Everybody knows - I am sure there is no disagreement on either side of the House -
Mr A.J. CARPENTER: I attribute it to the priorities of the newspaper. Everybody knows that in this area of education - leaving aside the other areas of service delivery - we would like the Commonwealth Government to contribute more, and it does not. That is a great sadness for Western Australia.
Explore WA Government Data
Search the full archive in the free dashboard, or query programmatically via API.
Explore more
Government Gazette
Appointments, regulatory notices, planning changes.
Hansard
Debates, questions, speeches and sentiment.
Tabled Papers
Reports and documents tabled in Parliament.
Committees
Committee profiles and recent reports.
Regulations
Subsidiary legislation with filters and summaries.
Bills
Proposed laws and parliamentary progress.
Acts
Current WA legislation and summaries.
Explanatory Memoranda
Bills with EMs (text/PDF) available.
Members
MP profiles, party breakdown and rankings.
Pollie Rankings
Data-driven rankings across 19 categories.
Amendment Chains
Track how schemes and regulations evolve over time.