Anger over axing of Aboriginal education jobs

A Geraldton woman says Aboriginal communities will not put up with the axing of Aboriginal education jobs.

Bundiyarra Irra Wangga Language Centre manager Jennifer Gregory-Kniveton, protested the cuts and spoke to media outside the Department of Education Midwest Region office today.

“Given the appalling statistics for this and other regions around the State, why are Aboriginal identified positions being targeted?” she said.

“There is a need for more of these positions, not less.”

Late last year, the Government announced 23 Aboriginal education roles would be abolished around the state, leaving the Mid West regional office without Aboriginal education staff.

Minister for Education Sue Ellery said schools would receive support from a recently established directorate led by senior Aboriginal Department of Education staff, while 50 Aboriginal and Islander education officers would be employed this year.

Ms Gregory-Kniveton said she would consult with colleagues in nearby regions to organise another protest.

She was joined in today’s protest by Nadine Taylor and Charmaine Green.