The Queensland Government has announced a $54.5 million investment for more teachers in regional, rural, and remote areas. 

The funding includes $25.7 million to expand the state’s Turn to Teaching Internship program with 200 additional places, $10.5 million for the Trade to Teach Internship program, adding 30 places, and $18.3 million for attraction and retention payments for regional teachers meeting specific criteria.

The Turn to Teaching program supports individuals with existing bachelor’s degrees to specialise in subjects such as English, maths, science, and languages, while the Trade to Teach program helps those with trade qualifications earn a Bachelor of Education (Secondary). 

Both programs offer financial support and paid internships, leading to permanent teaching roles.

Additionally, the government is increasing the Regional Attraction and Retention payment from $900 to $1,200 for 2024 and 2025, for state school teachers in high-priority regional locations.

While the funding is welcome, some have criticised the spending for not fully addressing systemic issues like workload, class sizes, and professional development.