The Victorian Government will fast-track funding for upgrades to Catholic and Independent schools across Victoria to give students and staff the best facilities sooner, and support local jobs, businesses and Victoria’s economic recovery. 

Member for Tarneit Sarah Connolly today announced that Good News Lutheran College in Tarneit will receive $5 million as one of the more than 50 projects under the Non-Government Schools Capital Fund. 

The grant will go towards the construction of a 2-storey Junior Primary School Building for Junior Year students in Years 1, 2, 3 and 4. The building will incorporate direct instruction and collaborative learning areas, including Wet Project Areas, Meeting/Seminar spaces, Staff Planning, Kitchen, Multi-purpose space and Student and Staff Amenities.  

In addition, the construction of six new schools are being supported by this Fund, including $4 million for a new Catholic Primary School in Tarneit North, which is expected to open in 2023. 

The 56 projects will create close to 800 jobs during construction, and follows more than $1.18 billion for new schools, upgrades and expansions of government schools announced in May. 

Additional funding for this second round of the Non-Government Schools Capital Fund has been brought forward to help stimulate the economy and create jobs. 

The successful schools will be able to start their projects within the next six months driving Victoria’s economic recovery from the pandemic, and the summer’s bushfires. 

The projects will help these schools meet growing enrolment demand and includes six new schools in growth areas. More than a third of Victorian students attend Catholic or Independent schools. 

It’s part of the Government’s election commitment to establish a $402 million fund in partnership with the non-government school sector to upgrade and build new non-government schools across Victoria.    

The Victorian Government is building the Education State with an unprecedented $7.2 billion investment that is not only creating 7,500 jobs but improving, upgrading and building schools to ensure that every community can access a great local school where students are supported to achieve their best. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education James Merlino 

 “We promised to upgrade and build new non-government schools – we’re keeping that promise and fast-tracking funding for projects to drive our economic recovery.” 

“Every child – no matter where they live or go to school – deserves the best facilities. That’s why we’re supporting government, Catholic and Independent schools with record investment to give our kids the best education.” 

Quotes attributable to Member for Tarneit Sarah Connolly 

“This project will help Good News Lutheran College and give local students and staff the best possible facilities.” 

“This investment is vital to Victoria’s economic recovery and creating jobs in the Education State.”