In December 2019, a historic gathering of education leaders from across the nation established Australia's educational goals and actions for the next decade. Known as the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration (the Declaration), it sets out the national vision for education and the commitment of Australian Governments to improving educational outcomes.
Mparntwe (pronounced ‘M-ban tua’) is the Arrernte name for Alice Springs. The Aboriginal Arrernte (pronounced ‘arrunda’) people are the traditional custodians of Alice Springs and the surrounding region.
Ministers agreed that education should continue to promote excellence and equity and enable all Australians to become confident and creative individuals, successful learners, and active and informed community members. The Declaration includes some significant changes to ensure Australia’s education system continues to provide the best opportunities for young Australians in a rapidly changing world. The Declaration places students at the centre of their education by emphasising the importance of meeting the individual needs of all learners, and outlines education’s role in supporting the wellbeing, mental health and resilience of young people.
The Declaration can be accessed by clicking here.