This paper identifies the current major issues for Australian schooling and outlines the policy offerings of the major parties heading into the 2025 federal election. It finds that battlelines are being firmly drawn on school education policy, with the conversation centring on funding, equity and student outcomes. 

Government schools continue to grapple with funding shortfalls, despite federal government commitments to close the gap, while funding and accountability for independent schools remains contentious. 

Meanwhile, policy shifts such as nationwide mobile phone bans and curriculum updates reflect community concerns about student engagement, digital literacy and civic awareness.

The major parties appear to be facing off on issues of fairness and socio-economic responsibility from traditional vantage points. All major parties acknowledge the issue of teacher shortages.

Major issues

• Public vs. private funding
• Curriculum and educational priorities
• Teacher shortages and workforce retention
• Student behaviour, mental health and digital distractions
• School facilities and overcrowding
• Declining student performance
• Increase in non-government school enrolments.