Nats split over Gonski funding

Debate was sparked by the Young Nationals push for the party to honour the funding deal.

In support of the recommendation, a NSW Nationals member said a “good policy is a good policy, regardless of the party.”

But the sentiment was lost on half the room who argued supporting the funding for six years was breaking an election promise.

“Where is the money going to come from and when are people going to start taking care of themselves?” one Nationals member asked.

The debate was postponed due to education minister Adrian Piccoli being absent.

When it resumed Mr Piccoli explained why he signed up to the Gonski arrangement and implored the room to understand the deal was "disproportionately beneficial" to regional NSW.

"The agreement (with the previous Labor government) was for six years and the dollars were fixed in place for six years," Mr Piccoli said.

"This is not the only government policy area funded beyond four years.

"Everyone here knows our schools are overloaded with students from disadvantaged backgrounds...with this model, our schools benefit the most.

"I know some in the Federal government are not thrilled with the position I've taken.

"It's about choices...we put a clear priority to put money into schools.

"The Commonwealth chose to increase defence funding.

"It is more important to increase education funding."

Federal member for Riverina Michael McCormack said he understood why Mr Piccoli had signed the agreement but that he couldn't support the motion because not all States had signed up for it.

"I want everyone to know I give a Gonski...but Adrian Piccoli and NSW signed a deal with Julia Gillard...and we all know what her promises meant (in relation to the Carbon Tax)," he said.

Labor signed deals for more than six years "knowing full well they wouldn't have to pay for it," Mr McCormack said.

"If this motion carried, it would be a slap in the face for Federal National members."

It was a closely fought battle, but the majority voted in favour of the recommendation.