The Resource Allocation Model (RAM) is a needs-based funding model which uses a base and loading approach to ensure a fair and transparent allocation of the NSW public education budget for every school. The base allocation provides funding for the core cost of educating each student and operating a school. Loadings are provided on top of the base allocation to support additional need.
The model recognises that each school is unique, and that student and school needs are not all the same. The RAM funding methodology drives the allocation of resources based on the context of each school and the needs of its students. Budget allocations are provided to schools annually through the School Budget Allocation Report (SBAR).
Every NSW public school receives their SBAR in Term 4, showing the school funding allocation for the following year, including needs-based funding and base operational costs. SBAR allocations are updated in the SBAR Adjustments, usually in late Term 1 or early Term 2.
The RAM methodology:
The components of the RAM can be seen in the triangle below. The 7 RAM loadings are shown on the left, with needs-based funding allocations on the right. Please note, 5 of the RAM loadings are needs-based funding allocations.
Targeted funding (needs-based funding) - individual student funding for:
Equity loadings (needs-based funding-RAM loadings):
SBAR funding supports school leaders to achieve the strategic directions in their Strategic Improvement Plan (SIP) and improve student outcomes. SBAR funding includes each school's allocations for the 7 RAM loadings.
SBAR funding and staffing allocations provided as full-time equivalent (FTE) must be used in the calendar year for which they are provided.
The 2024 Resource Allocation Model funding table (PDF 1,066 KB) shows the total funding for the 7 RAM loadings for each NSW public school.
Department staff can find more Strategic Schools Resourcing information on our intranet.
