$7.1 million School Funding blitz

Central Coast public schools will benefit en masse from the NSW Government’s $120 million Regional Renewal Program, with $7.1 million in new funding announced today.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said 36 schools covering all corners of the Central Coast would receive funding.

“In October we opened the Regional Renewal Program and invited schools to apply for projects that would improve their facilities. I am delighted that so many local schools took up this opportunity, ensuring our region receives its fair share of funding,” Mr Crouch said.

“Projects to be funded include playground and oval upgrades, new canteens, new toilet facilities, covered outdoor playspaces and walkways.

“This investment by the NSW Government is all about ensuring students can thrive in a fantastic learning environment, no matter which school they attend or what their circumstances may be.

“Delivery of each project will occur within the next 18 months and wherever possible, schools will use local construction companies, suppliers and workers to support the local economy as we continue to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

President of the Central Coast Council of P&C's Sharryn Brownlee said the funding was great news for schools and their communities after a tough year managing the complex COVID-19 restrictions.

“It’s wonderful to see such a substantial amount of money being invested in schools across the Central Coast. This much-needed expenditure will help ensure students have the facilities for the best learning environment possible,” Ms Brownlee said.

The Regional Renewal Program provides a NSW Government co-contribution of between 50 to 80 per cent for infrastructure improvements to high priority schools.

Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the funding was part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan.

“I’m pleased that we are continuing our record investment in school infrastructure. This program will benefit local communities and support hundreds of jobs, creating a safer and stronger regional NSW,” Mrs Mitchell said.

The NSW Government is investing $7 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver more than 200 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.