The petition of residents of Queensland draws to the attention of the House the Newman Government's decision to cease providing funding for Advisory Visiting Teacher - Hearing Impaired (AVT HI) support from Education Queensland to non-State and Independent schools from January 2013.  This decision will have a negative impact on Queensland children who have a hearing impairment and ultimately have an impact on their educational outcomes.  Hearing loss brings with it a specialised set of knowledge and understanding; without the support of the specialised AVT (HI) service, teachers in mainstream education settings will struggle to meet the needs of children who have a hearing loss and the children themselves will be in danger of failing to reach their full potential.

Your petitioners therefore request the House to urge the Minister for Education, Training and Employment to continue the vital funding for AVT (HI) support to non-State and Independent schools from January 2013 and beyond.