WILLIAMSON URGES GOVERNMENT TO FIX SUPPORT CLASS FUNDING SHORTFALL IN CLARENCE & RICHMOND VALLEY SCHOOLS

Nationals Member for Clarence, Richie Williamson, has called on the Minns Labor Government to urgently increase funding to ensure students in Clarence and Richmond Valley schools can access the support class placements they are entitled to.

Speaking in the NSW Parliament, Mr Williamson revealed that up to eight students set to enter South Grafton High School in 2026 are at risk of missing out on crucial support, due to a significant funding shortfall. He warned that the situation is even more dire for 2027, with placements already fully subscribed.

“This is simply not acceptable,” Mr Williamson said.

“Every student in NSW — whether they live in Sydney or in regional communities like the Clarence — deserves access to the same high-quality education and the tailored support they need to succeed.”

Mr Williamson noted that the problem extends beyond South Grafton High, with schools across the North Coast reporting that students approved for support classes are still unable to access placements because of underfunding and a lack of departmental planning.

“The lack of available support class placements is a growing and deeply concerning problem,” Mr Williamson said.

“Parents and schools are doing everything right, but the system is failing them. Students with clear needs are being denied the assistance they rely upon.”

Mr Williamson confirmed he has written to the Acting Minister for Education, urging immediate action to address the funding crisis affecting students, families, and teachers across public schools in the Richmond and Clarence Valleys.

“The Government must take immediate action. Our most vulnerable students cannot afford to wait,” he said.

A copy of Mr Williamson’s Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament can be found here - https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/la/papers/pages/notice-tracking-details.aspx?pk=20556