The Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, says Liberal cuts are hurting our local schools.

“At this time of year, as school goes back, many parents are thinking about their kids’ education, and what the future holds,” Mr Neumann said.

“Under Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals, the future for schools in Ipswich and the Somerset Region looks grim.

“Nationwide, the Liberals are cutting $30 billion from schools – that’s like sacking one in seven teachers.

“Here in Blair, our schools will lose more than $32 million over the next few years alone.

“These cuts will hurt our local schools.

“That means fewer teachers, less one-on-one attention, and students left behind.

“That means students getting less help with the basics like reading, writing, maths, science, and computer skills.

“Since the last election I have visited most of the local schools across Ipswich and the Somerset Region and I’ve seen first-hand the terrific work they are doing.

“Principals have made it clear that they want Labor’s needs-based funding to stay.

“Local schools have used the “Gonski funding” (or needs-based funding) to employ teacher-aides and relief teachers, speech pathologists, implement literacy, numeracy and reading programs, early intervention programs in the early years and provide much-needed training and professional development for their teachers.

“The Liberals’ cuts to schools mean programs like these and those additional teacher aides are set for the chopping block.

“Our community spends so much time fundraising for our schools because we know that money makes a difference.

“Malcolm Turnbull and the Liberals are cutting funding from schools because they think you should only get a good education if you can afford to pay.

“The Liberals can’t find money for schools, but they can find money for a big business tax cut.

“The Liberals have chosen to spend money on handouts for big business and the banks, rather than schools.

“You cannot trust the Liberals on education.

“Labor believes getting a good education is the ticket to a lifetime of opportunity.

“Labor believes education is critical to ensure Australia has a strong economy with secure jobs.”