Correct formula for more input

An annual “state of the education” report based on real performance indicators could be another role for an education parliamentary committee.

Over time, we could see just how the Queensland education system is performing.

During the late 1970s Queensland did have a select committee on education. It was chaired by then National Party backbencher Mike Ahern.

During its brief two years this committee delivered half a dozen reports that were widely praised, stopped some of the excesses of education curriculum development, drew a line over ministerial interference in courses and reviewed key aspects of education administration.

Queensland needs such a parliamentary committee again given everyone's agreement, from Prime Minister Kevin Rudd down, on the importance of education to this nation's future economic and social wellbeing.

Federal talk about an “education revolution” is fine, but let's first start with a “democratic revolution” right here in Queensland with an all-party parliamentary committee which, through its open processes of hearings and debate, can open this area up to better accountability and to some innovative ideas from outside the bureaucracy.