South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman has welcomed funding for a new public school in the growing Charlemont area in the budget.
Mr Cheeseman said as part of the budget, the state government has set aside funding to secure land for the school, which had an interim name of Horseshoe Bend Primary School.
Mr Cheeseman had called for a new school in Charlemont and had created a petition.
“Thank you to everyone who signed my petition supporting a new school for Charlemont and surrounds. The Andrews Labor Government is once again delivering for our growing communities,” he said.
Mr Cheeseman said there was a need for essential services, including a school, in the suburb, which had seen significant growth in the past few years.
The budget included $236.7 million to acquire land for schools, including the Charlemont school.
Other Geelong schools that will receive funding in the budget include specialist schools Hamlyn Views at Hamlyn Heights and Nelson Park in Bell Park.
The schools are among 36 special schools that will share in $326 million for upgrades to improve educational outcomes with high-quality classrooms and learning facilities.
“Every parent wants to give their kids the best start in life – but you can’t get a first-rate education in a second‑rate classroom. That’s why we’re building a fantastic local school for every family in Victoria,” Education Minister James Merlino said.
“Kids with special needs deserve access to the same opportunities as every other student and with these upgrades, we’ll make sure that’s possible.”
