On Thursday 24 March, Member for Barker, Tony Pasin MP will host a Limestone Coast Regional Education Roundtable with Regional Education Commissioner, the Hon Fiona Nash.

Ms Nash was appointed to the role on 6 December 2021, by the Minister of Regional Education, Bridget McKenzie to bring a national focus and direction for regional, rural and remote education and to champion the educational needs of students in regional communities.

Mr Pasin has invited key stakeholders within the education sector across the Limestone Coast to take this opportunity to discuss firsthand with Ms Nash issues and opportunities for the regional education sector.

“Education and access to the opportunities it generates, is essential for the Limestone Coast and it is fundamental that we work to reduce the disparity between city and country students, particularly in relation to education participation and attainment.” Mr Pasin said.

“I want to hear first-hand the opportunities and challenges regional education faces to ensure I can continue to advocate for the improvement of education policies spanning early childhood education and care, schools, and tertiary education to better support students in the Limestone Coast.“ Mr Pasin said.

The appointment of a Regional Educational Commissioner is part of the Australian Government’s response to the National Regional, Rural and Remote Tertiary Education Strategy.

The Australian Government recognises students in regional, rural and remote areas face additional challenges accessing high quality education and successfully transitioning to employment and has committed $6 million over four years to improve regional education outcomes and reduce the disparity between city and country student outcomes.

ENDS.