$150 million for State Schools of Tomorrow in 2008-09

The Bligh Government will invest $150 million in 2008-09 to transform state schools across Queensland through a major capital works renewal program.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the investment was part of the Government’s five-year $1 billion Tomorrow’s Schools package.

“The package includes $850 million to provide better educational opportunities for students in primary and secondary schools under the State Schools of Tomorrow initiative,” Mr Welford said.

“This year’s $150 million investment will include starting construction and renewal works on Round One State Schools of Tomorrow projects, involving clusters of schools at Innisfail, Eastern Ipswich, and the metropolitan Brisbane areas of Inala-Durack and Brisbane Bayside.”

The planned development of a new education precinct at Innisfail was announced on May 25.

The Government is finalising its consideration of the three other Round One projects and is expected to announce decisions in coming weeks.

“The good news is Round Two of State Schools of Tomorrow will deliver better learning environments in classrooms, libraries and computer rooms to hundreds of schools across the state,” Mr Welford said.

“Rather than focussing on a small number of areas, the second round of this initiative will be more wide-ranging, to benefit more schools and provide more children and teachers with modern learning facilities.

“Specifically we will be renewing many older school classrooms, as well as providing some new ones.

“These will have larger learning areas, improved library facilities and upgraded computer rooms.

“All Queensland state school children should have access to excellent learning facilities and opportunities, no matter where they live.”

The project will focus on schools and buildings built before 1988 when more modern school facility standards were introduced.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000