Operations grant increase
This initiative provides a targeted increase to certain components of schools’ operational funding. This amounts to an overall operations grant increase of 2.92 per cent which represents a net increase of $118.110 million over four years.
This increase is in line with the Government’s manifesto commitment to provide ongoing operational funding increases to schools.
How has the increase to the operations grant been targeted?
In 2012, this increase will be targeted as follows:
- $17.1 million or 56 per cent to per-pupil funding
- The remaining 44 per cent, or $13.7 million, will be targeted as follows:
- Base funding for area/composite schools and year 9-13 secondary schools – $4.7 million
- Information and communications technology (ICT) – $4.8 million
- Heat, light and water – $4.2 million.
Why has the increase been targeted?
The increase to the operations grant has been targeted towards particular components to ensure the Government can best apply funding in line with its priorities and commitments, and the needs of schools.
Per-pupil funding is to recognise cost increases that will occur through demographic growth.
Base funding for area/composite schools and year 9-13 secondary schools will be increased in line with the Government’s manifesto commitment to strengthen support for area schools.
Funding for ICT will help meet the costs of an increased demand for internet services.
Funding targeted towards heat, light and water represents a 6.9 per cent increase and is designed to support the implementation of a new funding formula and compensates schools for increases in energy prices.
When will schools receive the increased funding?
Schools will receive the increase in funding from the beginning of the school year 2012.