A national inquiry into Australia’s public school infrastructure needs.

Schools For Our Future is a national inquiry established by the Australian Education Union to examine the current state of public school infrastructure and make recommendations about what is needed for the future.

The inquiry will consult widely with school communities, governments and education groups across the country.

It will look at what’s working and what needs to change to ensure every public school is future-ready with the classrooms and facilities to meet the needs of every child.

14,000

classrooms are needed

Principals estimate an additional 14,000 permanent classrooms are needed in public schools by 2030 to cater for rising student enrolments.

20,000

demountable buildings

There are over 20,000 demountable buildings in public schools across Australia.

46%

only of total expenditure on school infrastructure in 2023

Only 46% of the total expenditure on school infrastructure in 2023 was in public schools – far less than their enrolment share of 64%.

Modern school building with students in courtyard

“Every child in Australia deserves to learn in a school that is safe, modern and built for the future. This inquiry will ensure their voices, and the voices of the teachers and support staff who serve them, are heard.”

Sharan Burrow AC

Committee Chair, Schools For Our Future

Latest Updates

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Consultations in Western Australia

Consultations in Western Australia

This week the Schools for Our Future inquiry travelled to Western Australia.

Schools For Our Future

Schools For Our Future

Australia’s public schools are more than just buildings, they are the heart of communities, the place where children discover their talents and strengths, and the...

Consultations in South Australia

Consultations in South Australia

The launch of the Schools for our Future inquiry took place in South Australia this week along with the first round of consultations.

Schools For Our Future Issues Paper document cover

Download the Issues Paper

Read about the Issues facing this national inquiry into Australia’s public school infrastructure needs.

Download the document

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