‘Game changing’ $80m shift to recognise more disabilities in Qld schools

An extra 30,000 Queensland students with disability - including those with ADHD, dyslexia and Tourette’s - will be supported at school under a new $80m plan.

Dyslexia, mental health conditions, Tourette’s, fetal alcohol syndrome and ADHD will be formally recognised as disabilities under a new $80m education resourcing model for Queensland schools.

Education Minister Grace Grace said on Thursday the new model was a “game changing shift” in how schools were resourced to support students with disability.

While the current system was based on just six prescribed types of disabilities, the new model would see all disabilities formally recognised and supported, Ms Grace said.

“I have listened to the heartfelt views of many parents and organisations about the need for a new way of resourcing schools to support students with disability,” she said.

“In 2023 we will start to phase out our current resourcing model, with the new model to be fully implemented by 2025.

“While schools already support these students, there will now be more dedicated resources available.”

Minister for Education Grace Grace. Picture: David Clark

Ms Grace said the change would mean support for an extra 30,000 students with a disability across the state, and a focus on prep students to “give them a great start”.

“This money will fund almost 500 new frontline positions to support students, and provide continuity and certainty, until the new model is fully implemented,” she said.

“(There will also be) a new extensive resourcing category for students with the most intensive needs, an easier streamlined, single process for families without the need for additional medical or specialist reports.”

Queensland Teachers’ Union president Cresta Richardson said the extra funding was a “step in the right direction”.

“Not only for the students, but for the teachers and school leaders who are really stretched right now with teacher shortages,” she said.

“Every student, irrespective of their situation, deserves access to the educational opportunities that can fully harness their potential and talent.”

The funding boost was also welcomed by Queensland Association of Special Education Leaders President Ric Day.

“This new funding model is sharply focused on students’ needs and will ensure resources are allocated to more students with disability, based on reasonable adjustments, in a fair and equitable way across all primary, secondary and special schools,” Mr Day said.

“I commend the government and their continued focus on ensuring every student with a disability succeeds.”