The state government has purchased three sites to make way for a secondary and two primary schools in Melton.
A package was announced last week to buy land for more than a dozen new schools across Melbourne’s fastest growing areas including Cobblebank, Rockbank and Deanside.
Education minister James Merlino said the $236.8 million investment would buy land for 14 new school sites which also include Clyde North, Cranbourne West, Mickleham, Wollert, Wyndham Vale and Pakenham.
A site will also be acquired in Seddon for a new Seddon campus as part of the Footscray Learning Precinct.
“We’re breaking the cycle of short-term planning for new schools and investing now
to meet the needs of the future,” Mr Merlino said.
“Right across the state we’re building new schools to make sure that no matter where they live, every child has the chance to get a great education.”
Melton councillor Steve Abboushi welcomed the news on Facebook saying it was “great news for Melton and our residents”.
Premier Daniel Andrews said the investment in infrastructure would be beneficial for years to come.
The state government has already invested $2.5 billion into school infrastructure needed to meet the needs of Victoria’s growing student population until 2019.
Mr Andrews said the new school sites were identified following analysis of demographic data and enrolments at existing schools.
“Whether it’s in Pakenham or out in the west we’re giving local families the certainty they need that their kids will be able to attend a great local school, close to home,” he said.
Community engagement about the schools will start soon with details available at the Victoria School Building Authority website: www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au
