Victoria remains hopeful it can strike a deal with the federal government on school funding, despite "some distance" still remaining between the parties.
The Victorian and federal governments met on Monday to negotiate their disagreement over funding levels and autonomy under the federal reforms.
"We are moving closer but there is still some distance," Victorian Treasurer Michael O'Brien said.
"There are gaps on both sides of the equation and we are working with the federal government in a cooperative way in good faith, but knowing that we will only enter into an agreement if it is for the benefit of Victorians, Victorian schools, Victorian parents both on a financial and an autonomy basis."
Mr O'Brien said the fact negotiations were continuing was a sign that the gaps could be bridged.
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"We're happy to keep talking. This talk of deadlines seems to always come from the commonwealth. They're the ones who are putting artificial deadlines on discussions," he said.
"We'll talk till the cows come home if it leads to a better outcome for Victorians."
