The Nationals Member for Gippsland South is calling for the Allan Labor Government to ensure that the 2024-2025 State Budget includes funding to begin the Sale College redevelopment.
Speaking in Parliament recently, Mr O’Brien highlighted the need for a new consolidated campus and called on the Minister for Education to ensure the project receives the money needed so that it can begin.
“I have been campaigning since 2017 for new facilities for Sale College to replace the current out-dated campuses which are no longer fit-for-purpose.
“The senior campus on Macalister Street in particular is landlocked and subsequently does not have great outdoor facilities.
“The physical buildings themselves are also in pretty poor shape, requiring the school to spend a lot of money on fixing the roof and other ongoing maintenance needs that see money going down the drain.”
Mr O’Brien said the school and its wider community have been vocal for some time on their desire to consolidate the campuses onto one greenfield site.
“I am grateful the Government allocated $3 million in the 2021 budget for master planning and initial scoping of the new school.
“The site identified on Cobains Road directly opposite the Gippsland Regional Sports Complex provides a perfect location right on the edge of town and representing an opportunity for growth.”
Mr O’Brien said the project is ready to go – it just needs the capital funding.
“Our children deserve education facilities that will enhance their learning experience and set them up for life.
“I am again calling on the Minister for Education to ensure this upcoming Budget includes sufficient funds to see this crucial project get underway.”