Roger Scott discusses the influence of religious groups on education policy. He comments on some of the issues during the Goss era, including upgrading of the Christian Heritage College, social science education and corporal punishment.
Roger Scott details his objections to Bjelke-Petersen's education policy including commentary on the SEMP and MACOS program. He describes how both educational programs were abolished, in part due to pressure group influence. He notes the subsequent parliamentary inquiry and select committee on education which criticised the influence of these groups.
Robin Sullivan describes her interactions with education lobby groups as a teacher in the latter days of the Bjelke-Petersen Government, and again as a public servant in the Goss Government. She comments on the growing influence of industry groups on educational policy, and the push for a national set of core competencies.
Warren Pitt provides his explanation for the success of One Nation in the 1998 election. He emphasises the impact of wealth disparity and discusses the importance of job creation and education.
Clyde Gilmour recalls a meeting with the Premier and a group who were opposed to MACOS teaching in schools. He recalls that Gordon Chalk announced prior to an election the funding of pre-school education to the surprise of the department.
Bill Hewitt delves into the establishment of the select committee examining education policy and the influences on the committee's work. He discusses the role of Lionel Powell.
Craig Sherrin discusses education reform during the Bjelke-Petersen era, Joh Bjelke-Petersen's personal accessibility to lobbyists and constituents, and Flo Bjelke-Petersen's contribution to the government.
Mike Ahern discusses the role of committees in parliamentary accountability. He talks specifically about the select committee on crimes of violence, committee on privileges, select committee on education and the role of technology in advancing the delivery of distance education.
