Media Release
Thursday 10 July 2025
School Communities Deserve Facts, Not Fear
The Tasmanian Association of State School Organisations (TASSO) is urging calm and clarity following rising concerns among families from commentary about the future of their local schools during the state election campaign.
TASSO President John Allan has urged caution, citing growing speculation around school closures, assuring families that no such proposal is currently on the table.
“Despite the headlines, we’ve not seen any tabled policy from the major parties to close schools, or otherwise, in this election campaign,” Mr Allan said.
“Previous stances have been that the government does not close schools, but sometimes politically expedient mandates come with unintended consequences – and could result in more zombie schools, take Ouse District School for example, which has no students.”
TASSO is concerned that a lack of clarity is fuelling fear in communities already under pressure, and is calling for respectful, transparent and evidence-based dialogue about Tasmania’s education future.
“We need to avoid having change forced by stealth with communities kept in the dark.” Mr Allan said. “Under state legislation, any reforms or changes to schools must involve the School Association.”
“Our member School Associations are the voice of the school community, and they must be central to any conversations around structural or operational changes.” Mr Allan continued. “We urge them to champion their community, to weigh up whether or not any future proposed changes would provide positive improvements in educational, economic and/or social impact.”
TASSO strongly supports investment in government education and says that the focus should remain on practical policies that improve student outcomes.
“TASSO want to see policy that boosts the right on-the-ground resources in schools,” Mr Allan said.
“Access to allied health services, and learning support is essential. Our families need greater collaboration with their children’s education, engagement with learning beyond written reports and parent teacher conferences. What they don’t need is political distractions and scaremongering.”
TASSO will continue to advocate for transparent decision-making, community involvement, and strengthening Tasmania’s government school system.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Bennett
Tasmanian Association of State School Organisations (TASSO)
info@tasso.org.au
(03)62437718
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