David Gonski AC, recently visited Emanuel School to speak with the Year 12 Economics students about his review into school funding in Australia. Mr Gonski explained how Prime Ministers Gillard and Turnbull had consulted with him and moved education funding from a per capita to a needs-based system. He also talked about his role as Chancellor of UNSW as well as his business and community leadership positions.

Matthew Joffe, Year 12 Economics student commented: “The Year 12 Economics classes were fortunate enough to receive a visit from Mr David Gonski AC in which he spoke on his notable achievements in his life, highlighting his review of the Australian education funding scheme. Throughout preliminary and HSC economics classes, Mr Gonski’s Review and the implementation of his new and improved, needs-based funding scheme in Australia has been heavily discussed.

“It was deeply interesting and a privilege to hear Mr Gonski speak, especially as he has a significant connection to Australia’s education system as well as our economic discussions in class. The passion with which Mr Gonski spoke about his current work around Australia undoubtedly inspired numerous students among the classes to pursue a career similar to his, ideally matching the success he has had across many fields of work.”

The Economics students were able to ask questions which ranged from enquiring about his role as a Chairman through to how he became Chancellor of one of Australia’s leading universities. It is a rare honour to be able to hear from an Australian who has achieved so much in business, community leadership and economic policy initiatives.

David Bartlett, Head of HSIE