On 6 July 2010, the panel commenced its preliminary consultation process through a stakeholder listening tour that began in Hobart before progressing to other capital cities throughout July and August 2010, with some additional meetings held in November and December 2010.

The panel sought initial views from some 70 groups in the schools sector including government and non-government education authorities, Indigenous education and special education representatives, and parent, principal, teacher and union groups.

On 16 December 2010, the panel released a Review of Funding for Schooling: Emerging Issues Paper  that summarises the views presented by stakeholders during the initial listening tour.

The panel invited submissions on the issues reflected in the Emerging Issues Paper between
16 December 2010 and 31 March 2011.