Why schools must have a seat at the economic reform table
As Australia plans economic reform, schools remain sidelined. But no lasting productivity gains are possible without fixing the foundation: our education system.
As the Albanese government convenes business, unions and cross-sector leaders for its Economic Reform Roundtable, one voice remains conspicuously absent: schools. Barely mentioned in the recent election, the very engine of long-term prosperity and the future of our children is still begging for a seat at the table.
The irony is stark. Just as artificial intelligence is poised to displace one in three Australian workers and supercharge global productivity, our schools remain stuck in a compounding cycle of crises. Sitting on the sidelines with them is our nation’s competitive future.
Australia is not ready. More than 4.1 million children are enrolled in schools, yet many feel unsafe, are falling behind or aren’t even making it to class. We pride ourselves on universal education, but the data tells a sobering truth: our school model is no longer fit for purpose.
Schools are becoming increasingly hostile environments for students and teachers alike. One in four students reports bullying, and 42% experience frequent classroom disruption. Today, schools are looking more like unsustainable workplaces and unsafe learning spaces.
