A hidden factor in birth-rate decline
May 29, 2026
Australia's birth rate is at record low of 1.42 children per woman, significantly below the 2.1 replacement level.
It's the same situation in North America and Europe.
A recent article in The New York Times, suggests that beside cost of living pressures and the trend of delaying parenthood, insecurity in work and in the world are making people question the future and whether they should bring a baby into it. This also explains why people with secure jobs are still not leaping into parenthood. Read the article here
The impact on society will be immense. With fewer children, what impact will it have on schools and teaching careers?
Image: young students enjoying Toonworld's Model Making Workshop (Airdried Clay)
Rich Schools, Poor Schools
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
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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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