Senator Trish Crossin has today successfully moved a number of amendments to the Education chapter of the ALP National Platform, with particular reference to Indigenous education and training.
Date: 31 July 2009
Senator Trish Crossin has today successfully moved a number of amendments to the Education chapter of the ALP National Platform, with particular reference to Indigenous education and training.
The National Platform now emphasises that education and training are fundamental to reducing indigenous disadvantage and are necessary in order to close the gap for Indigenous people.
Senator Crossin said, "It is important that the National Platform, that forms the basis of Labor policy, emphasises the importance of education and training for Indigenous people.
"These changes will also highlight Labor's commitment to working in partnership with Indigenous communities and families to develop and improve access to education and training and the outcomes from it."
Labor further acknowledges the importance of Indigenous cultures and perspectives in our education system and will ensure that it is a part of the National Curriculum.
The Platform now also outlines Labor's support for a mandatory Indigenous Studies component as part of all teachers' pre-service training.
"Teachers obviously play an important role in any child's education. The Platform's support for Indigenous Studies will ensure that all teachers have an understanding of Indigenous education issues and the knowledge to work effectively with Indigenous communities and families," Senator Crossin said.
"This clearly demonstrates the real commitment Labor has to improving education and training outcomes and to closing the gap for Indigenous people."