Interface Councils are pleased to hear that a re-elected Labor Government will invest $850 million to build 45 new schools across the Interface Councils Region (ICR).
“Today’s announcement is a major step forward in making a much-needed investment within the Interface region,” said Cr. Amanda Stapledon, Mayor of City of Casey.
“For too long, families have been put at a disadvantage within the Interface when it comes to education. More schools will mean better facilities and improved class sizes.”
Labor’s announcement also includes a commitment to make sure that every new primary school includes a kindergarten.
“The collocation of kindergartens within primary schools is a major shift in thinking and we believe it is the right path forward,” said Mayor Stapledon.
“Interface Councils have continually advocated for more facilities that deliver a range of services to help make our communities stronger and more sustainable.”
The commitment to new schools means that the following 45 schools will be built by 2022:
Seven schools in Casey
Seven schools in Wyndham
Six schools in Hume
Five schools in Melton
Three schools in Whittlesea; and
Two schools in Cardinia
Recent Interface Councils research published in the revised One Melbourne or Two? report has estimated an investment of $1.58 billion is required by 2031 to make sure that the group of Interface Councils does not fall behind the rest of Melbourne in terms of kindergarten, primary school and secondary school investments. The announcement by Labor reduces this gap and will ensure that education can keep pace with growth throughout the ICR.
Interface Councils is a group of ten municipalities that form a ring around metropolitan Melbourne, comprising Cardinia Shire Council, City of Casey, Hume City Council, Melton City Council, Mitchell Shire Council, Mornington Peninsula Shire Council, Nillumbik Shire Council, City of Whittlesea, Wyndham City Council and Yarra Ranges Shire Council. Together, the group works to enhance the liveability of the region for its residents. For more information visit www.interfacecouncils.com.au.
