In spite of the fact that the Australian Labor Party caved in on the States Grants Act 2000 which delivered billions of taxpayers dollars into sectarian, elitist schools,  (Surprise! Surprise!) the Australian Education Union  are planning to continue the battle for Public Education throughout Australia.

Teachers from every state and territory are meeting in Melbourne at Education Unions House, 120 Clarendon Street, Southbank, on Wednesday January 17-19, 2001. They will be discussing the forthcoming Federal election and the future of public education. Leaders from the ALOP, the Australian Democrats and the Greens will address the Federal Conference. Kim Beazley and Michael Lee from the ALP (they have some explaining to do!); Meg Leses and Lyn Allison from the Australian Democrats and Bob Brown from the Greens. The Conference will also feature international speakers on education and discussion of curriculum and professional issues.

According to Mr Denis Fitzgerald, AEU Federal President, teachers invited Mr Howard and Dr Kemp to speak to the Conference but unfortunatley neither the Prime Minister nor the Minister responsible was willing to discuss education with the representatives of the profession, nor were they inclined to send a spokesperson on their behalf. The AEU President however, understands that the State School vote will count in the forthcoming Federal Election:

" Education is ranked now at the top Federal election issue and the public education vote is likely to be critical in dozens of marginal seats. Teachers will be listening very closely to what the political parties are prepared to commit themselves to on behalf of the 3.85 million Australians who are educated in our public schools and TAFE colleges.

We have the best public education system in the world. We aim to keep it that way. It is our prfoessional responsibility to defend the interests of the students in our care. We will note carefully what the politicians are prepared to commit themselves to. We will communicate with every parent in Australia. Education is the essential element in building a 'fair go' and a worthwhile future for all of our youngsters. It will be the essence of the twenty-first century."

If you are associated with a public school you can do your bit.

MR HOWARD  - BEWARE THE IDES OF MARCH

On March 15, there will be a celebration of public education in the commencement of an aggressive publicity campaign against the federal Government's funding legislation. This day has the backing of leading public education groups, including the Education Union, the primary and secondary principals associations, the Parents and Citizens association and the NSW Department of Education.

During this Open day, schools will display their strengths in theatre, music, art, languages and sport to parents and friends. Some states will hold rallies and public meetings.

The Public School vote will bring down the Howard/Kemp education policy, and with it the Liberal Government.