Iemma government deserts community colleges

Commenting on a story on page 6 of today's Sydney Morning Herald,  Dr Kaye said: "The Iemma government has walked away from its commitment to community colleges.
 
"The total budget has been slashed by $29 million over the last five years. The NSW government shrank its financial commitment to community colleges by a massive 57.1% over that period.
 
"Nine colleges have closed and others are teetering on the edge of collapse.
 
"The Iemma government has been hoping that no one will notice that it has driven the adult and community education sector to the edge of collapse.
 
"Despite providing essential education and training opportunities as well as massive cultural and health benefits, community colleges are under Treasurer Michael Costa's budget knife.
 
"In 2002/2003, the total public budget for community colleges was $27.2 million, in 2006 dollars. By 2006/2007, it had fallen to $18.9 million.
 
"The NSW government's contribution fell from $10 million to $4.3 million over the same period.
 
"This is a mean-spirited attack on an essential ingredient for a healthy society. Colleges are already struggling with unstainable funding levels and now they will lose legislated recognition.
 
"The government's actions mock their rhetoric about social inclusion and communities.
 
"This is a body blow to the elderly, the unemployed and people seeking to improve their lives and broaden their economic opportunities," Dr Kaye said.
 
For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455