As a consequence, Victoria will not reach the benchmark of providing 75% of the School Resource Standard (SRS) until 2031, which is three years later than Queensland and six years later than New South Wales.

Victoria's government has secretly cut $2.4 billion from public school funding by delaying its commitment to the Gonski education reforms, further tarnishing the state's reputation as the lowest funder of public schools in Australia.

This funding cut will result in an initial difference of $35 million this year, escalating to over $300 million annually by 2027, and ultimately reaching $2.4 billion by 2031 due to the delayed commitment.

The decision to delay funding was made by top officials, including Premier Jacinta Allan and former Treasurer Tim Pallas, who rejected a compromise proposal to meet the funding benchmark sooner.

In stark contrast, Queensland is set to receive an additional $2.8 billion, while Victoria's funding will decrease by $300 million despite having a larger number of schools and students.

Education Minister Ben Carroll has warned that these funding cuts will exacerbate inequities in the education system, harm Victoria's reputation, and prolong disadvantages for students.

The opposition has criticized the government for hypocrisy, accusing it of cutting billions from public school funding while simultaneously demanding more federal support.

As a result of these cuts, the federal government is projected to reduce its funding to Victorian state schools, leading to an anticipated loss of nearly $3 billion over the next decade.

Confidential documents reveal that the funding cuts were approved during a March 2024 cabinet meeting and were concealed in the previous year's budget documents.

The Gonski reforms were designed to ensure that schools receive funding based on student needs, but Victoria's current funding trajectory undermines this goal and exacerbates disparities between public and private schools.

The latest election results indicate that the Labor party holds 92 seats, while the Coalition has 39, reflecting a significant defeat for the Coalition parties.

In political news, the National Party will conduct a leadership vote on May 12, 2025, with incumbent David Littleproud facing off against right-wing candidate Matt Canavan.