The Australian Secondary Principals’ Association (ASPA) has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement to provide student teachers with $320 per week during their professional experience placements.
In an announcement shared on 6 May, the Government said it is establishing a Commonwealth Prac Payment to support students undertaking mandatory workplace placements required for university and vocational education and training qualifications. Australians studying to be a teacher, a nurse, a midwife or a social worker will be eligible for this payment.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said teachers give children the best start in life, and they deserve a fair start to their career.
“We’re proud to be backing the hard work and aspiration of Australians looking to better themselves by studying at university. We’re funding support for placements so our future nurses, teachers and social workers can gain the experience they need,” he said.
Minister for Education Jason Clare said the new initiative will give people who have signed up to do some of the most important jobs in this country a bit of extra help to get the qualifications they need.
“This is practical support for practical training. Placement poverty is a real thing. I have met students who told me they can afford to go to uni, but they can’t afford to do the prac. Some students say prac means they have to give up their part-time job, and that they don’t have the money to pay the bills,” he said.
ASPA President Mr Andy Mison commended the initiative as a critical investment in Australia’s education future and a significant step towards addressing teacher shortages.
“ASPA strongly welcomes the government’s commitment to financially support teaching students during their mandatory placements,” Mr Mison said.
“‘Placement poverty’ has long been a barrier for aspiring teachers, often forcing them to juggle work commitments alongside their unpaid placements, causing significant financial strain.”
Mr Mison highlighted the positive impact this initiative will have on attracting and retaining talented individuals in the teaching profession.
“By alleviating financial pressures, this payment will encourage more people to consider teaching as a viable career path. It sends a clear message that the government values the teaching profession and is actively working to grow the teacher workforce.”
The $320 per week payment directly addresses a key recommendation from the recent Universities Accord review, demonstrating the government’s commitment to strengthening both teacher training and the pipeline of future educators.
“Quality teachers are the foundation of a strong education system,” Mr Mison said. “Attracting a diverse range of capable individuals to the profession will benefit students and schools across the country. Supporting our future teachers is an investment in our nation’s future.”