Rich Schools, Poor Schools
Jun 12, 2026
Australia’s schooling system is among the most highly segregated in the OECD. Public schools educate the majority of disadvantaged students, while there is concentrated advantage in private schools.
This situation can be attributed, in large part, to our school funding arrangements. Recent research from the Australian Education Union shows “over half of Australia’s private schools now receive more combined government funding per student from both the federal and state governments, than similar public schools”.
Read the article in The Conversation, sparked by an essay by public school advocate, Jane Caro explaining how we find ourselves in this situation.
Given all that, we applaud public school teachers for finding the funds to inspire students through arts experiences.
Image: Donnna-Leigh Perfect in The Resilient Rockstar Show in a government primary school.
Hurry if you haven't sorted Book Week
As Term 3 is almost upon us, if you haven't sorted a Book Week incursion, hurry! If you're flexible with dates, you might be able to swing one of our great shows.
See our Book Week Shows here.
Image: Something Special Live - Available NSW, QLD, ACT,VIC,SA & WA
Livestream version available nationally
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Naidoc Week in 2026
The next cultural day to celebrate nationally is NAIDOC week. This year on 5-12 July, when all Australian schools are on holiday. The likely time schools could celebrate is the first week of July, when some states are still at school.
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Vic & SA - Attention Language Teachers
The amazing Carrousel Theatre are offering Puss in Boots, Aladdin & the Magic Lamp The Jungle Book and Cinderella in Victoria, in so many languages! Jungle Book & Cinderella will also tour into South Australia (August only).
They tell classic stories through e
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