Labor Government Fixing Schools And Building The Education State

More than 150 public schools will share in $27 million to fix ageing buildings and infrastructure, Minister for Education James Merlino announced today.

Almost 330 buildings at 153 schools will be renovated and refurbished so that Victoria’s children can receive a quality education in quality facilities.

The funding is in addition to regular maintenance funding all schools receive and comes on top of the massive school infrastructure funding boost announced in the Labor Government’s 2015-16 Victorian Budget in May.

Funding is being directed to buildings that were identified during an independent audit of every school building as being in the most need of renovation. To view the full list of schools receiving additional maintenance funding click here.

The Andrews Labor Government’s first Budget invests close to $4 billion in Victoria’s education and skills system – representing the single biggest boost to education funding in Victoria’s history.

The Budget provides $325 million to renovate, refurbish or rebuild 67 schools. It will fund the first stage of an extensive asbestos removal program so that families can be assured their children are being educated in safe schools.

It also includes $180 million for programs that will help families cover the extra costs of education, like camps, excursions and uniforms, so no child misses out.

For Victoria to become the Education State, it is vital that all Victorians join in the Education State consultation and share their ideas and aspirations for our education system.

Head to educationstate.education.vic.gov.au to join in the conversation.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education, James Merlino

“This $27 million funding boost will help our schools fix ageing buildings and infrastructure.”

“We’re rebuilding schools across the state and giving Victorian students the safe, modern and comfortable classrooms that they need to learn.”

“The Government is investing more than $4 billion to make Victoria the Education State, so every community has a great local school and every child gets the chance to succeed.”