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Education Baimbridge College | April 28, 2016

Kealy – Baimbridge College funding not enough

The Nationals Member for Lowan, Emma Kealy MP is disappointed that yesterday’s budget allocation far Baimbridge College did not go far enough to deliver infrastructure improvements.

“Baimbridge College is one of 35 schools to share in $7.3 million for planning. The school desperately needs infrastructure money to undertake upgrades works, not for another planning study,” Ms Kealy said.

“It’s very disappointing that less than $8 million was allocated for the entire Lowan electorate when the Phillip Island Penguin Parade alone received $50 million and the Andrew’s Labor Government is skiting about a $2.9 billion surplus. This clearly demonstrates the further you live from Melbourne, the less Labor care,” she said.

Last week Emma Kealy MP hosted a visit to Baimbridge College with Hon. Nick Wakeling, Shadow Minister for Education.

“I have visited Baimbridge College on many occasions and it is clear the school is in desperate need of infrastructure repairs, refurbishments and new buildings – not another study,” Ms Kealy said.

The Nationals-Liberal Coalition committed $2 million at the 2014 election to refurbish and rebuild parts of the school.

“On many occasions I have raised the need for infrastructure for Baimbridge College with the Minister for Education, Hon. James Merlino, asking for him, at a minimum to match the Nationals-Liberal Coalitions pre-election commitment,” Ms Kealy said.

“This year Baimbridge College will celebrate 100 years of government secondary college in Hamilton and funding is well overdue to support and upgrade their aging facilities.

“The Andrews Labor Government needs to understand the importance of ensuring rural and regional Victorians have access to quality education and it’s disappointing they have not delivered infrastructure funding for Bainbridge College.

“All young people deserve quality learning environments, whether they live in the city or the country, and it is important our students and teachers are supported with first-class facilities,” she said.