Explanatory Memorandum
(Circulated by authority of the Minister for School Education, Early Childhood and Youth, the Honourable Peter Garrett MP)Outline
The purpose of this Bill is to amend the Indigenous Education (Targeted Assistance) Act 2000 (the IETA Act) funding to include an additional calendar year (2013). Under existing legislative arrangements this funding will be available for expenditure until 30 June 2014.
The Government is conducting a Review of Funding for Schooling, due to report in 2011. While the Review is focused on the mainstream, there may be implications for the design and operation of the closely complementary programs run under the IETA Act. This extension will allow sufficient time for the Government to implement any changes arising from the Review, while also meeting its responsibilities around proper planning, engagement, consultation and change management with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, communities and funded organisations.