Signs of school credit conflict
4th June 2010
From the Parliamentary Library
Author: JOHN MASANAUSKAS, education reporter
Publisher: News Ltd
Publication: Herald Sun, Page 23 (Fri 28 May 2010)
Keywords: Martin (1),Dixon (1)
Edition: 1 - FIRST
Section: NEWS
Signs of school credit conflict
FEDERAL authorities have rebuffed a State Government bid to be mentioned on signs that trumpet the national school building program.
Schools awarded projects under the Federal Government's $14 billion splurge must erect signs acknowledging the federal contribution.
But Victoria wants its name alongside the Commonwealth's at schools that have also received state money for projects.
``Under the current . . . guidelines, schools are required to erect two signs,'' said a state Education Department submission to a Senate inquiry into the school building program.
``(The department) suggests further consideration is given to joint Federal and State Government signs.''
But a spokesman for Deputy PM Julia Gillard said the states had agreed to guidelines for school signs.
State Opposition education spokesman Martin Dixon said it was a State Government ploy to take credit for the federal program.
``If the Brumby Government put in as much effort into improving numeracy and literacy standards as they do on promotion, our students would be much better off,'' he said.
A spokesman for state Education Minister Bronwyn Pike said Mr Dixon should turn his attention to education policy.
More than 8000 plaques recognising the program will be installed. Under the guidelines, Ms Gillard must be invited to all opening ceremonies and schools should acknowledge the Commonwealth's help in newsletters, websites and local media.
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Martin Dixon MP
State Member for Nepean
Shop 1, McCrae Plaza
Cnr Lonsdale Street and Pt Nepean Road
McCRAE VIC 3938
Phone: (61) 3 5986 6661
Fax: (61) 3 5981 1360
Email: martin.dixon@parliament.vic.gov.au