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Media Release
'HELPING AUSTRALIA SING' $1 MILLION FEDERAL GOVERNMENT COMMITMENT
31 August 2007
The Hon Pat Farmer MP, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Education, Science and Training, the Hon Julie Bishop MP, today announced funding for an exciting new $1 million project to improve the quality of music and arts in Australian schools.
‘Helping Australia Sing’ is a national project developed by The Song Room Inc. to broaden the opportunities for children across the country to participate in quality music programmes and performances.
“The Song Room is dedicated to facilitating music and arts programs in Australian schools and communities, and focuses on children and communities disadvantaged through economic, social and geographical circumstances, disability and recent immigration,” Mr Farmer said.
“Music and the arts not only assist students to be actively involved in their school community but also develop self-confidence and stronger learning outcomes.
“I am delighted to support this project which will target disadvantaged students and those without access to music programmes and specialist music teachers.”
These were identified as key areas for priority action in both the National Review of School Music Education and the National Music Workshop.
“Today’s announcement is in keeping with the Government’s response to the recommendations of the National Review of School Music Education, specifically, with regard to improving equity and access to music education programmes and enhancing music in schools through productive partnerships,” Mr Farmer said.
The Australian Government will contribute the funding over three years to help this important initiative facilitate sustainable partnerships between the education, arts and cultural sectors, to enrich learning in and through the arts particularly in disadvantaged communities.
“I am looking forward to seeing the results of this innovative project, as music and the arts are such an integral part of every child’s education,” Mr Farmer said.
More information about the Song Room can be found at: www.songroom.org.au
Media Contacts:
Rebecca McCready 0434 652 083
Department of Education, Science and Training: Media Unit 02 6240 7300
Non-media queries 1300 363 079
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