By Ewen McRae
More than a dozen schools across the Melton region are set for upgrades, following the latest round of state government funding.
The government last week announced $515 million for maintenance projects in Victorian schools, with 16 schools in the Melton electorate to receive funds.
Bacchus Marsh College received the largest share in the funding, with $275,207, while Wedge Park Primary ($242,256), Melton Secondary College ($206,185), Melton Specialist School ($194,290), Staughton College ($186,507), and Kurunjang Secondary College ($157,180) all received sizeable grants.
Melton Primary, Exford Primary, Melton South Primary, Melton West Primary, Coburn Primary, Kurunjang Primary, Arnolds Creek Primary, Darley Primary and Pentland Primary will all receive grants of between $70,000 and $120,000.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said the funds were crucial to ensuring local students get the best chance to succeed in their education.
“We know students get the most out of their education when they have safe, modern classrooms to learn in, and first-rate facilities the school community can feel proud of,” Mr McGhie said.
He said the funds would enable Melton schools to do essential works such as painting, replacing carpet and windows, landscaping, tree inspections and maintenance of infrastructure such as septic systems and water services.
Education Minister James Merlino said the funds would have a major impact on schools across the state.
“Sometimes it’s the little things that can have a really big impact,” he said.
“From fixing leaky taps to a new lick of paint – this investment will help every child, in every state school, right across Victoria.
“Every single one of Victoria’s more than 1500 state schools will benefit from this investment.”
In addition to the state government announcement, Mr McGhie visited Melton West Primary School last week to deliver a $500 donation for the school’s playgroup.
