Ideas. Action. Opportunity.

I’m delighted that a record investment of $1.06 billion will be injected into the Tasmanian education and skills sector in the 2008-09 State Budget.

As Premier of Tasmania, I want Tasmania to become a place that is clever, kind and connected.

This is the beginning of a new way forward for Tasmania. Now is the opportunity for new ideas, new approaches and new energy.

It is for these reasons that education is the centrepiece of the 2008-09 State Budget and will give us the opportunity to re-energise the Tasmanian economy and encourage innovation.

This Government recognises that one of the best ways to alleviate poverty and encourage economic growth is to provide Tasmanians with better educational opportunities.

This Budget continues to place emphasis on our three priority areas of early years, literacy and numeracy, and student retention.

But we are also determined to take action to improve educational outcomes for all Tasmanians, especially those who are most in need.

The 2008-09 Education Budget delivers a range of new and continuing education and skills initiatives that will provide increased opportunities to Tasmanian children and families in a growing Tasmanian economy.

The enclosed information on the education component of the State Budget will give you an overview of our priorities in education over the next four years.

If you would like more information on the Budget, please contact my office by calling 6233 6308.

David Bartlett MP
Premier of Tasmania
Minister for Education and Skills