Coker confirms school commitments

CORANGAMITE Labor federal member Libby Coker says she will make good on one part her election commitments, announcing funding for five schools in her electorate was locked in.

In the leadup to this year’s federal election, Ms Coker made the pledges to the five schools, visiting some of them in early May with then-Leader of the Opposition in the Senate and now-Foreign Minister Penny Wong.

The schools to be supported by the $270 million School Upgrade Fund are:

Drysdale Primary School, with $9,800 for classroom IT equipment* Grovedale College,with $50,000 for outdoor basketball courts* Inverleigh Primary School, with $170,000 for an undercover basketball court

Mirripoa Primary School in Armstrong Creek, with $40,000 for football oval fencing, and

Surf Coast Secondary College, with $39,210 for outdoor fitness equipment.

Ms Coker said the funding for the commitments had now been confirmed and will be provided to the schools in coming weeks.

“We committed to funding for these important school upgrades – and we’ve delivered.”

“This is terrific news for these schools, especially for their students.

“It means better equipment and facilities to help them learn and play in a top-class environment.

“I’m so proud of our local schools and students. Everyone has had a tough couple of years and this funding is part of our efforts to help them bounce back.”

The funding is part of the School Upgrade Fund being rolled out by the Albanese Government to boost school infrastructure for students to combat the impacts of the pandemic.

Ms Coker also encouraged local schools to apply for funding for projects under the open grant round.

“The open grant round is worth $32 million and will be invested in things like new laptops and iPads, classroom upgrades and outdoor learning areas,” she said.

“I want our local schools to get their fair share and so I’m encouraging them to apply.”

Funding will go to schools most in need towards small-scale projects worth up to $25,000 to create healthier and safer learning environments and help students get back on track after disruptions caused by COVID.

Schools must apply online at education.gov.au/schools-upgrade-fund before 11.59pm on February 24, 2023.