Work has officially started on the new $85 million state school at Augustine Heights in Ipswich, which will support more than 230 local jobs.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the school is one of four new schools her government is building this year ready for 2023, with others in Ripley, Yarrabilba and Palmview – a total investment of nearly $330 million.
“We want all young Queenslanders to have a world class education in world class facilities,” the Premier said.
“That’s why since 2015, we’ve built 21 new schools in the fastest growing areas of our state. We are currently building 4 for 2023, and in total there are 11 new schools due to be built in the next couple of years.”
Education Minister Grace Grace today turned the sod on the new $85 million state school at Augustine Heights in Ipswich officially marking the start of works.
Minister Grace, who was joined by the Member for Jordan Charis Mullen and the Member for Bundamba Lance McCallum, said investing in education was a hallmark of good Labor governments.
“This school is not only delivering a world class education facility but construction is also vital to rebuilding our economy and creating jobs,” Minister Grace said.
“Here at Augustine Heights we are investing around $85 million, but this year alone we are putting in $330 million to four new schools – together they will support 900 local jobs.
“No government in Queensland history has invested more in our schools. During 2021–22 alone, the Palaszczuk Government is delivering an overall education infrastructure investment portfolio valued at almost $1.9 billion, supporting more than 4,100 jobs across the state.”
Member for Jordan, Charis Mullen said it is great to officially kick off the construction of what is going to be an amazing school for this community.
“Stage One of the school will open with learning areas, multi-purpose courts, a student support and staff building, a library, canteen, sporting field and more,” Ms Mullen said.
“It will have capacity for around 600 students from 2023, expanding up to 1,000 when Stage 2 of the school is delivered.”
Member for Bundamba, Lance McCallum said another brand new school means families in the local community will have even greater access to world-class educational facilities.
“This is a fast-growing area, and a new school at Augustine Heights will be a welcome addition to nearby Fernbrooke State School, Redbank Plains State School and Augusta State School,” Mr McCallum said.
“I am proud of both the record numbers of front line teaching staff and state of the art investments and infrastructure upgrades the Palaszczuk Government is delivering for our local students, staff and school communities.”
Minister Grace today also confirmed the Foundation Principals for three of the four new schools opening in 2023:
Augustine Heights – Kendall Seccombe
Ripley – Wuanita Meyrick
Yarrabilba – Aaron Jones
“I welcome each of these new Principals who were selected for their track record of experience in educational leadership. They will start now, working alongside their local school communities to get ready to open in 2023.”
