WACSSO welcomes the release of the Review of the School Education Act 1999 (WA) and congratulates the Expert Panel and Advisory Council on the comprehensive recommendations within the review.
Education Minister Sabine Winton’s release of the final report, along with the government’s commitment to strengthen legislation and policy to ensure students with disabilities have more equitable access to quality education, is something our members and Western Australian parents have long anticipated.
WACSSO supports Minister Winton’s statement that “Every child has the right to a quality education that supports them to learn and grow, and we look forward to how the government will, “prioritise changes that lead to the most timely and effective outcomes for students with disability and their families.”
The review, commissioned by the Cook Government in December 2023 delivers15 recommendations spanning a range of areas, including the definition of disability, principles for inclusive education, reasonable adjustments, enrolment review panels and complaints processes to improve access and inclusion for students with disability.
While WACSSO is encouraged by many of the directions outlined in the Review and the Government’s response, some areas of divergence remain – particularly around funding and resources, and whether a dedicated, independent complaints body will be established to support families in resolving education-related issues. WACSSO reiterates the position we submitted during the Review process ‘without proper funding and resources, schools will struggle to effectively implement any recommendations solicited by this Review.’
As the guiding legislation of Western Australian education, the School Education Act must evolve to reflect the realities of modern education and the diverse needs of our communities. Schools require both the flexibility and resources to meet the complex learning needs of all students. Greater flexibility within the legislation should empower families and school leaders to pursue innovative and inclusive learning pathways that enhance educational outcomes. Importantly, these approaches must strengthen inclusion and ensure every student regardless of ability or circumstance can learn, participate, and thrive together.
WACSSO President Pania Turner, highlights, “Our public schools must be places where all students can thrive. The Review’s recommendations require significant work across legislation, education policies and procedures. As the government progresses this work, it is vital that parents and carers, who have often had to be the strongest of advocates for their children, are genuinely consulted and heard.”
The Western Australian Council of State School Organisations (WACSSO) represents the voices of parents of public school students across Western Australia. As the peak body for more than 650 Parents and Citizens Associations (P&Cs), WACSSO advocates for quality public education and equitable opportunities for every student. We sincerely acknowledge and thank the families who shared their lived experiences and personal stories as part of the Review; your voices are essential in shaping a more inclusive education system.