Improving literacy and numeracy for all Tasmanians is a priority of this Government, because we know that education is key to getting a good job and living a fulfilling life.
Today, I am pleased to announce the Tasmanian Government’s 10 year strategy to improve adult literacy and numeracy.
26TEN Tasmania: Tasmania’s Strategy for Adult Literacy and Numeracy 2016-2025 sets an ambitious new direction to improve adult literacy and numeracy.
The strategy replaces the previous five year Adult Literacy Action Plan 2010-2015, which gave rise to 26TEN, a network of organisations and individuals working together to improve adult literacy and numeracy.
The new strategy will allow 26TEN to engage with a broader cross-section of the Tasmanian community and send a message about the importance of adult literacy and numeracy to even more.
The strategy provides a framework to help business, community groups, government, education and training providers and individuals to work together to ensure all adults have the reading, writing, numeracy and communications skills they need for life and work.
The Tasmanian Government is committed to funding this strategy and is providing $4.5 million to fund the direct provision of literacy and numeracy support to adults through LINC Tasmania and through a 26TEN grants program and to supporting 26TEN with financial and human resources.
Last financial year more than 2,250 adults received individual literacy support from 26TEN tutors through LINC Tasmania, more than 1,900 received assistance based on individual learning plans and a further 343 took part in literacy group programs.
Today, I am also very pleased to appoint six new members to the 26 TEN Coalition. The Coalition is a committed group of people who volunteer their time to champion the cause of adult literacy and numeracy, and advocate action in their respective sectors.
I welcome Malcom Wells, education sector, Tim Tierney, legal sector, Mellissa Gray, State Government sector, Angela Ross, media sector, Tanya Denison, civil construction sector and Daryl Quilliam from local government who will also take on the role of Chair. They join existing and committed members Siobhan Gaskell, Mary Bent, Royce Fairbrother and Jo Crothers.
These new appointments give the Coalition a broader reach across a range of key sectors.
Jeremy Rockliff, Minister for Education and Training
