"Victoria has spent the least per head on government schools of all states for more than a decade. This has led to too many schools being under resourced which in turn has resulted in them 'under performing'. Instead of blaming schools, they should be properly resourced," she said.

In the latest AEU survey, 71 per cent of Victorian public school principals said they do not have the appropriate resources to ensure quality program delivery in their school.

"If the government is serious about its stated commitment to a first class education system, then it needs to adequately fund all government schools so they can deliver the best possible outcomes for students", she said.

"Victorian teachers continue to earn less than teachers in every other state. This is forcing many teachers interstate, overseas or to leave the profession altogether. This is an indictment on the government and is already causing a severe shortage of teachers now and into the future," she said.

"The government needs to making funding all schools and paying all teachers properly its top priority. This will go a long way in ensuring quality education for all Victorians," Ms Pennicuik said.

For further information:   Sue Pennicuik   0407 000 270

Background:
According to the Productivity Commission in 2005-06 funding per fulltime equivalent government-school student in Victoria was $10,352 - $891 below the national average. Victorian funding is $927 per student below NSW, considered the most comparable state in terms of demographics and staff to student ratios.