Schools benefit from $90 million maintenance boost

State schools across Queensland are about to benefit from a massive boost as part of the Bligh Government’s commitment to spend an extra $90 million over two years on state school maintenance.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said $45 million would be spent this financial year under the State Schools of Tomorrow- external finishes upgrade program in 895 schools throughout the state.

“This is part of our major makeover of schools across the state as part of the $1 billion Tomorrow’s Schools initiative,” Mr Welford said.

“This funding has been set aside for maintenance at state schools and Environmental and Outdoor Education Centres,” Mr Welford said.

“It will fast-track works such as painting and repairs and replacement of wall cladding, roofs, guttering, downpipes, windows, doors, posts, verandahs and staircases.

“Schools from the Torres Strait in the north to Coolangatta in the south and west from Camooweal to Stradbroke Island in the east are set to benefit this financial year.

“We have 22,000 buildings to maintain across the state so its imperative that we keep up with vital repairs and improvements.

“This huge boost will make a big difference to the learning environments for our students.

“Research shows the environment in which students learn can have a significant impact on the learning outcomes of students. Our students deserve the very best.”

Mr Welford said this funding would significantly enhance the State Government’s schools maintenance program, bringing the total school maintenance budget for 2008-09 to $125.3 million.

“Our Government is committed to delivering world-class education and training – now and into the future – so we’ve got a program in place to renew our older schools with modern infrastructure makeovers and build high-tech new ones to accommodate our growing student population,” he said.

“Our $850 million five-year State Schools of Tomorrow initiative is about planning for the future of education in Queensland and undertaking major renewal, maintenance and modernisation of state schools.”

The $5 million State Schools of Tomorrow – employee housing maintenance program will run in tandem with the school maintenance program.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000