The Labor Party has unveiled a $14 billion education plan in a bid to win the next election. It says it’s the biggest ever investment in public schools.

Georgie Hewson reports.

TRANSCRIPT

Labor has pledged to invest in all Australian public schools if it’s elected in the next federal election.

The $14.4 billion will be spent over a decade.

It’s a direct response to the government’s promise of additional funding to private schools.

Bill Shorten, Opposition Leader: “Don’t short change kids in public education.”

$3.3 billion of the money would be pumped into the public system during the first three years.

In return for extra funding, the states would be required to sign up to a national plan to improve schools with clear goals and targets.

The money could fund as many as 13,000 teachers and 23,000 aids.

Tanya Plibersek, Deputy Opposition Leader: “More one-on-one attention, more help with the basics.”

Labor says its proposal is the biggest school funding plan in Australia’s history.

But the Coalition is sceptical.

The Prime Minister believes voters will want more detail.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “Parents want to know how that money is being spent.”

Georgie Hewson, QUT News.