Public Sector Union calls on Government to engage more widely on budget repair

The CPSU/CSA welcomes the government’s decision to reverse some education cuts to the School of the Air, the Gifted and Talented Program, the Level 3 classroom teacher program and Northam Residential College.

These services are critical for our remote communities and it’s heartening that the McGowan Government has heard some of the concerns of the West Australian community. 

We look forward to continuing our discussions with Government about reversing more of the cuts that impact on the education of children in this state.

These include the unprecedented job cuts supporting the delivery of valued services at schools at the Department of Education, including aboriginal education staff and truancy support staff

Toni Walkington, Branch Secretary CPSU/CSA:

“I’m pleased the government has listened to the West Australian community and this is a great first step in but there’s more to be done.

“The community has been loud and clear – leave our kids’ education alone.” 

“Today’s decision is evidence that the Government needs to find a new way to work with affected stakeholders. The anxiety and effort triggered by these cuts and their impact could easily have been avoided by engaging collaboratively with parents, staff and other stakeholders. 

“There are still critical school services on the chopping block including cuts to Department of Education staff, specialist Aboriginal Education staff, and truancy support staff.

“We encourage Government to engage with affected communities, particularly the aboriginal community and staff delivering these valued services, on getting the balance right for all West Australians.