The Government has issued a discussion document on a review of school special education needs for public consultation.
More than $450 million a year is spent on special education programmes, with an additional $51 million allocated over the next four years for students with the highest needs.
Associate Education Minister Heather Roy says the current system has been in place for about 10 years and a serious and frank look is needed at funding.
The review seeks feedback on how schools could work together for students with special education needs and how funding is allocated.
The Labour Party says it supports the review. Spokesperson Grant Robertson says he hopes it will focus on developing a truly inclusive education system that offers parents genuine choice.
Submissions close on 19 March.
