Victorian schools will receive a funding boost to deliver small but important upgrades thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s $70 million Minor Capital Works Fund.
Minister for Education James Merlino today announced 328 schools will receive funding to fast-track priority projects, supporting local jobs through Victoria’s economic recovery.
Last month, the Labor Government invested more than $3 billion in school upgrades through the Victorian Budget 2020/21.
While much of this funding went towards new schools and major upgrades to existing schools, this fund is delivering smaller projects that also make a big difference to local schools. Projects will commence from early 2021.
The funded projects include:
- 58 projects to upgrade existing ovals and other sporting facilities
- 58 projects to provide new or upgrade existing playgrounds or sensory play spaces
- 43 projects to refurbish school toilet facilities to improve amenity, cleanliness and hygiene
- 24 projects to upgrade and refurbish roofs and other external building works
- 30 upgrades to fences, and;
- 15 projects to provide greater shade and outdoor covered areas at schools
Victoria’s school building boom is the biggest in the country. More importantly, it’ll mean our kids have the classrooms – and the bright futures – they deserve.
In the past five years, the Labor Government has invested more than $9 billion in more than 1,600 school upgrades – creating more than 10,000 construction jobs – and is now ahead of schedule of its commitment to open 100 new schools by 2026, with 48 new schools opening between 2019 and 2022.
As stated by Minister for Education James Merlino
“Every student should have a great school, no matter where they live. That’s why we’re investing in hundreds of small but important projects that will make a big difference for schools and create jobs for Victorians.”
“Whether it is upgrading toilets or building a new fence – this is all about making sure our students have the facilities they need.“
