Dutton Park hits the mark for new high school location

Education Minister Grace Grace has confirmed Dutton Park will be home to Brisbane’s newinner city secondary school.

Ms Grace announced the location for the new school during the Estimates hearing today.

“Following extensive community consultation, which included almost 300 submissions, I am pleased to announce that Dutton Park will be the location for our next inner city high school,” Ms Grace said.

“This location is one of Australia’s most exciting urban renewal zones and we know the school, which is set to open in 2021, will develop a reputation to rival the best schools in the country.

“The Dutton Park precinct was identified as the best area for a new school based on its proximity to the city, connections with existing transport infrastructure and our nearby tertiary education partner the University of Queensland.

“We know that Cross River Rail will generate significant social and urban renewal in the area and this precinct also offers opportunities for future growth and expansion.

“I would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time during the 11-week consultation period, to provide their valuable feedback on the three proposed locations.

“Just like the new high school we’re delivering in Brisbane’s inner north at Fortitude Valley, this school in the inner south will be an exciting and cutting-edge state education facility.”

Deputy Premier and Member for South Brisbane Jackie Trad welcomed the announcement.

“I am incredibly proud that the Palaszczuk Government will deliver a brand new high school for our growing community,” Ms Trad said.

“This is a vital project that I have been fighting for, alongside my community, for many years.

“This location presents the best opportunity to deliver a leading, secondary school for our rapidly growing local community and to importantly to ease some of the enrolment pressure on Brisbane State High School.

“The main question local residents raised during consultation related to the catchment for the new school and how it would affect the existing BSHS catchment.

“So, the next thing we’re doing is finalising catchment options and enrolment processes for the new school to then put out for consultation.

“We want everyone to have the opportunity to have their say on these important issues and consultation will commence soon.

“The Department of Education will also seek input from the local community to help inform the concept designs for the new school.

“I would encourage the community to get involved in the next stages of planning for this flagship project.”

Ms Grace said the proposed catchment area and enrolment plan for the Inner City South State Secondary School would be available online and open for feedback from the end of August.

Media contact: Emma Clarey – 0439 578 472