EDUCATE ME
New Commonwealth payment to support aspiring teachers
A new Federal Government initiative is set to be a game-changer in attracting young people to the teaching profession.
From 1 July 2025, the Commonwealth Prac Payment will provide $ 331.65 per week to eligible Initial Teacher Education( ITE) students during their mandatory professional experience placements. This financial support aims to ease the burden on aspiring teachers, allowing them to focus on becoming high-quality educators without the stress of financial hardship.
The NSW Department of Education and the NSW Council of Deans of Education have welcomed the initiative, calling it a vital step towards supporting the next generation of teachers.
NSW Department of Education Secretary Murat Dizdar praised the move, stating,“ Teaching is a deeply rewarding career that shapes lives and communities. This new payment removes a key barrier for pre-service teachers and sends a clear message: we value and support our future educators.”
Professor Susan Ledger, President of the NSW Council of Deans of Education, noted that the payment acknowledges the difficulty students face when stepping away from paid work to undertake school placements.“ For many, this financial strain is a significant hurdle. This support helps ease that pressure and ensures more students can complete their training.”
The payment is available through higher education providers, covering up to 400 hours of professional placement, and can be accessed alongside existing income support.
As Australia’ s largest education system, the NSW Department of Education is urging all eligible teaching students to contact their university and apply early.
This initiative marks a meaningful investment in a strong, diverse, and supported teaching workforce – ensuring every classroom has a great teacher and every future teacher has the opportunity to thrive.
More information available at: www. education. gov. au / commonwealth-prac-payment-cpp
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