The Territory Labor Government is investing $1.65 million in acoustics upgrades for NT classrooms, as part of its COVID-19 education stimulus program to support local jobs.
The $1.65 million acoustics upgrade program will see 75 classrooms across the Territory upgraded with acoustic wall and ceiling finishes, which will improve the acoustic quality of the classrooms, making it easier for students to hear and learn.
It comes in addition to the Building for Inclusion funding announced in January, in which 21 classrooms will be fitted with specialist hearing amplification systems, which will enable students with difficulty hearing, or with additional needs, to engage in their learning.
The $1.65 million acoustics upgrade program is part of more than $4 million in fast-tracked school infrastructure initiatives to support the local construction industry through COVID-19.
This funding also included $1.98 million for school maintenance and repairs, and $605,000 for a new shade structure at Driver Primary School.
Other COVID-19 education stimulus measures previously announced include:
- $10.8 million for 15 transportable classrooms
- The continuation of the NT childcare subsidy
- Guaranteed payment of school support staff employed by school councils, many in casual positions.
As stated by Acting Minister for Education, Eva Lawler.
“The Territory Labor Government is investing to ensure every child, irrespective of their circumstances, has equal access to a high quality education.
“We know that, for many Territory children, hearing loss or compromised hearing ability can lead to disengagement from the education system, which has lifelong impacts.
“These hearing amplification systems will see improved engagement in learning in classrooms across the Territory, which in turn will lead to improved development not just academically, but socially.
“By putting in place a strong, supportive and inclusive education system, we are helping to ensure no child is left behind, and building brighter futures for the Territory.”
As stated by Member for Johnston, Joel Bowden.
“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, teachers adapted and adjusted in the most amazing manner putting their lives on hold to deliver for our kids while the Territory Labor Government acted decisively to save lives and to save jobs.
“By investing in education infrastructure, such as the acoustic classroom upgrade at Millner Primary School, we are not just supporting teachers and local jobs, we are investing in the Territory’s most important asset: our children.”
