October 2009     Victorian government schools will now enjoy free internet access from the first day of term one in 2010, Education Minister Bronwyn Pike announced today.

All Victorian government schools will have their internet charges covered by the Brumby Labor Government, saving schools projected costs of $9.5 million annually.

Ms Pike said a record budget of $4.4 billion had been allocated to Victoria’s more than 1570 government schools for the 2010 school year, an increase of 3.2 per cent on the same time last year.
“School annual budgets have increased by 70 per cent since 1999 giving schools greater flexibility and ensuring students are given every opportunity to shine.”

Under this latest record investment, government schools will have access to the internet free of charge in 2010.
Individual schools will continue to be expected to manage appropriate levels of internet use.

“The internet offers a world of learning opportunities and we want to ensure students are tech-savvy and develop the right skills they need for 21st century jobs.” “We are continuing to invest in every aspect of the system, with 9550 extra teachers and support staff and a massive schools rebuilding program.”

The budget allocation takes into account student enrolments, student need and the cost of schooling at different year levels. Final school budgets will be confirmed in early 2010 after student enrolments are finalised.

From a media release by the Minister of Education, October 5, 2009.

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