Farrer proud of Labor’s cut backflip

Member for Kimberley Josie Farrer has voiced her pride in the WA Labor Government for reversing its planned Schools of the Air cuts, after being blindsided by the initial decision last month.

The McGowan Government announced in December the five bush schools across regional WA, including in Derby, would be closed as part of $64 million in education cuts.

However, public backlash forced its reversal last fortnight.

Ms Farrer, who was not made aware of the cuts until the same day they were announced, said she had spoken with families in the region affected by the SOTA closure and expressed their grief to Education Minister Sue Ellery.

This did not fall on deaf ears, she said.

“I listened to the concerns from local families and I recognise their feelings of distress and anxiety,” Ms Farrer said. “I told the minister — she listened.”

Ms Farrer said although decisions were made in “an effort to contribute to Budget repair”, the balance was not right. “The minister for education reflected on the decision over the break, having listened to the community concerns and speaking to myself and other colleagues,” she said.

“She analysed the impact of the savings measures announced from both a financial and educational perspective, and decided to reverse some measures.

“This will ensure that every child across the State continues to receive a high-quality education.

“I am proud of my government for listening and acknowledging it was wrong.”

Premier Mark McGowan and Ms Ellery have apologised for distress caused by the cuts, admitting they “went a bit far”.