Couzens, Marchant make school commitments

LABOR is pledging better buildings on the eastern side of Geelong if it wins at the state election, with separate funding commitments for two schools.

This week, incumbent Geelong Labor MP Christine Couzens said a re-elected Andrews Labor Government would invest $3.39 million to Geelong East Primary School, followed by Labor candidate for Bellarine Alison Marchant pledging $2.1 million towards Wallington Primary School.

Ms Couzens said her commitment would fund the construction two new general-purpose classrooms at Geelong East Primary School, including toilet facilities and shared learning spaces.

This construction will include the demolition of the northern portion of Block A, and the creation of new exterior courtyards and landscaping.

Labor says the $3.39 million would build on the $1 million its government had already invested to make Geelong East Primary School a great school for local families.

“The best teachers aren’t able to do the best job in ageing classrooms and out-of-date facilities. That’s why the Andrews Labor Government has invested more than $12.8 billion to build and upgrade schools in every corner of the state – making sure every kid has every chance,” Ms Couzens said.

At Wallington Primary School, the $2.1 million commitment will upgrade the main school building and replace and upgrade relocatable buildings, and would be on top of more than $580,000 previously invested at the school.

“Every family deserves a great local school, and a re-elected Andrews Labor Government will invest $2.1 million to upgrade Wallington Primary’s main school building and replace and upgrade relocatable buildings – so local kids have the world-class facilities they deserve,” Ms Marchant said.

Labor says it is delivering on our commitment to build 100 new schools by 2026, with 75 already funded or opened, and has delivered more than 1,850 upgrades to schools since coming to government.

This building and upgrading work has reportedly supported more than 17,400 jobs in construction alone.

“Our teachers do an amazing job educating Victorian students and that’s why we’ve delivered so many new and upgraded classrooms and facilities at schools right across the state,” Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins said.