SPERA began in 1984 and has members in all Australian states and territories as well as internationally. The society holds the bi-annual National Conference for Regional, Rural and Remote Education and produces AIJRE the Australian and International Journal for Rural Education.
SPERA aims to advance education opportunities in rural Australia by sharing best practice and serving as a national advocate for rural education.
SPERA is involved in the following range of activities:
- organisation and conduct of the bi-annual National Conference for Regional, Rural and Remote Education (NCRRRE);
- providing forums for RRR education practitioners to share best practice through webinars and communities of practice;
- the production and distribution of the journal, the Australian & International Journal of Rural Education;
- provision of advice on rural education and training matters to Federal and State government departments;
- Production of submissions to various government departments and other organisations which are conducting enquiries into the provision of education and training in rural Australia;
- Membership of local, state and federal RRR committees; and
- Coordination and sponsorship of the bi-annual Australian Rural Education Awards.
Sources of Funds
SPERA receives funds from:
- annual subscriptions of members;
- copyright of Australian & International Journal of Rural Education;
- donations and sponsorship;
- profit generated from the NCRRRE.
Application of Funds
SPERA uses its funds for the:
- production of SPERA newsletters and reports;
- organisation of the national conference;
- production of the journal, Australian & International Journal of Rural Education;
- publicity for the SPERA organisation;
- administrative functions of SPERA;
- publications on rural education;
- sponsorship of the Australian Rural Education Awards; and
- pre-service teacher education sponsorships.