TANYA PLIBERSEK MP

SHADOW MINISTER FOR EDUCATION

SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP

MEMBER FOR MACQUARIE

An Albanese Labor Government will invest nearly $230,000 in Blue Mountains’ schools, committing to upgrades of playgrounds and air conditioning in its first term.

Shadow Education Minister Tanya Plibersek and Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman made the commitment during a visit to Faulconbridge today (April 26).

“Springwood High School students have been fighting for a fair go when it comes to a safe, cool environment for years, and that’s why, if elected, Labor would deliver $180,000 as soon as possible in its first term of government to upgrade air conditioning at the school,” Ms Templeman said.

“These are the students who started a 2hot2learn campaign after sweating it out in 37.7 degree classrooms. Monitors placed in 16 locations around the school in 2019 collecting 87 days of data showed indoor temperatures peaked above 30 degrees on a third of the days.

“But still the school missed out on the NSW Government’s air conditioning program. Springwood High needs urgent upgrades, and that’s why we have committed to funding them.

"Blaxland East Public School would also receive $40,000 to upgrade its play equipment, and Wentworth Falls Public School would receive $7000 for artificial turf in its outdoor learning space under the program of investment.

“Being able to learn and play outdoors is important for the development of our children, and I am very supportive of programs that get kids outside,” Ms Templeman said. 

“A good education is the ticket to a lifetime of opportunity and being in a comfortable, enjoyable setting helps foster an environment that is conducive to learning. 

“Australia has recorded our worst ever results in reading, science and maths under the Morrison Government, and we are being left behind in education. 

“Labor has already committed to delivering better ventilation, building upgrades and mental health supports for students to help them bounce back from COVID. This is another step towards stopping the slide in students’ results.”