Air conditioning delivered for western Queensland state schools

Every single classroom, library and staff room in every single western Queensland state school is now air conditioned, as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $477 million Cooler Cleaner Schools Program.

Acting Premier Steven Miles announced the achievement had been delivered early and before the start of Term 2, 2022.

“We promised Queenslanders that we would air condition every classroom, library and staff room in every Queensland state school and that’s exactly what we’ve done,” Mr Miles said.

“Around 10,000 spaces in 649 Queensland state schools have been air conditioned thanks to our $477 million investment in the Cooler Cleaner Schools Program.

“Due for completion in June 2022, all installations were completed over two months ahead of schedule to ensure students and staff could enjoy air-conditioned spaces from the start of Term 2

“We know that students learn best when they’re in cooler and comfortable learning environments.

“I know there will be some happy teachers, parents, students and staff across Queensland today.”

Education Minister Grace Grace said 18 western Queensland state schools have received air conditioning to provide a more comfortable environment in about 50 new school spaces in the Balonne, Maranoa, Murweh and Western Downs local government areas.

“Out of 1,258 Queensland state schools, 649 schools were assessed as still needing air conditioning to classrooms, staff rooms and libraries,” Ms Grace said.

“That included schools across the Balonne, Maranoa, Murweh and Western Downs local government areas, and the Palaszczuk Government has invested around $1.1 million to get the job done across the region.

“This program has already helped our students and staff feel more comfortable in teaching and learning environments right across Queensland.

“Our Cooler Cleaner Schools Program supported around 1,000 jobs during the height of the pandemic, as well as a pipeline of work as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s economic recovery plan for Queensland.”

Ms Grace said the use of air ventilation and correctly operated and maintained air conditioning systems that introduce fresh air from outside could help minimise transmission of COVID-19 in schools.

“Our investment also includes $71 million over 3 years to expand solar panel installations on state school rooftops to assist in offsetting the additional energy air conditioners will use,” Ms Grace said.

Ms Grace said the State Government remained committed to providing quality school facilities for Queensland, including addressing impacts of recent weather events on school infrastructure.

“During 2021–22, we are delivering an overall infrastructure investment portfolio valued at almost $1.9 billion, driving the Queensland economy by supporting more than 4100 jobs.”

For more information on the Cooler Cleaner Schools Program visit: https://alt-qed.qed.qld.gov.au/programs-initiatives/department/building-education/major-projects/cooler-cleaner-schools

ENDS

Media contact: Annamika Calcino 0418 183 210