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The Australian Government has taken a leadership role in raising boys’ achievement, through the $19.4 million Success for Boys initiative. This financial commitment to improving boys’ educational and social outcomes ran over 2003-2008.

Many boys enjoy school and are successful in their studies. However, it is also clear that many others are underachieving against a range of key educational areas and broader social indicators. Studies show that boys are underperforming in literacy, are less engaged with school, and in some schools boys account for eight out of every ten suspensions and exclusions.

Through this initiative the Australian Government is seeking to address areas of concern that impact on boys.

The successful Boys’ Education Lighthouse Schools programme, which operated from 2003-2005, supported over 550 schools nationally to develop effective teaching practices and strategies that work with boys.

Building on the Lighthouse programme and other efforts in boys’ education, the Success for Boys initiative is well placed to bring about significant and lasting change in the outcomes of Australian schooling.