11 June 2009

Peter Garrett today announced that 20 primary schools in Kingsford Smith will receive $38,650,725 for major new infrastructure projects under Primary Schools for the 21st Century (P21) Round Two.

This will bring total funding for Kingsford Smith primary schools under P21 to $49,150,725 (Rounds One and Two).

Mr Garrett, attending an assembly at Mascot Public School, said the Rudd Government is undertaking the largest school modernisation program in Australia’s history to support local jobs, stimulate every local economy and invest in important long term infrastructure

“This investment in our local primary schools is long overdue and will go a long way to support local jobs during the global recession,” said Mr Garrett.

“Teachers and students in our local schools should be teaching and learning in 21st century facilities.

“It is great to see principals, parents and tradespeople working together to deliver these important projects.”

Mascot Public School principal, Ms Annette McKeown, said the facilities will make a huge difference at her school, particularly with the construction of a new hall.

“We don’t have a school hall so we can’t have a whole-of-school assembly. We don’t have an appropriate place for school performances. This funding is absolutely fantastic and the whole school community is thrilled,” said Ms McKeown.

The $12.4 billion Primary Schools for the 21st Century program will deliver much needed funding for major infrastructure projects, including libraries, multipurpose halls and covered outdoor learning centres.

Mr Garrett encouraged those schools that have not already done so to get their applications in for Round Three which closes on 10 July 2009 and will see all remaining eligible primary schools receive funding. Round Two projects will begin as soon as possible.

The Government’s $1.3 billion National School Pride program has also delivered $7,244,785 worth of minor infrastructure and maintenance projects to 47 primary and secondary schools in Kingsford Smith.

Building the Education Revolution is a key element of the Rudd Government’s $42 billion Nation Building – Economic Stimulus Plan to support jobs, stimulate local economies and invest in important infrastructure for the long-term.

List of Kingsford Smith schools and P21 funding attached. More information at: www.buildingtheeducationrevolution.gov.au or  www.economicstimulusplan.gov.au