$484 Million win for schools and boost for business

More than 250 schools across NSW will receive upgrades, including improvements to playgrounds, science facilities and canteens, providing hundreds of jobs for local businesses.
The $484 million Minor Capital Works program will upgrade and renew school facilities and security, as well as improve accessibility for students with additional needs.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW John Barilaro said more than half the schools to benefit are in regional and rural NSW.
“This government is investing record amounts into our schools to ensure that every child, no matter where they live, has access to excellent schools and education facilities,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This investment will also provide a welcome boost for regional economies, by creating jobs and providing work for local tradespeople at a time when it is needed most.”
Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the program will be a boost for businesses as NSW exits lockdown, with $76 million going directly to local businesses.
“The NSW Government is investing record amounts into our schools, and as we begin our journey back to normal life schools will be central to our recovery. I’m thrilled this investment is a boost for both students and businesses,” Ms Mitchell said.
“These school improvement projects can have an incredible impact on the look and feel of our schools and through this government’s investment in programs such as this as well as Cooler Classrooms, LED Lighting Upgrade, Regional and Metro Renewal and Roof Replacement, schools right across NSW are experiencing the benefits.”
The Department of Education has more than 2,200 NSW public schools and delivery of these projects ensures that schools across the state have access to modern facilities to support learning outcomes.
Projects funded as part of the Minor Capital Works Program include an admin and staff upgrade at Dee Why Public School, a toilet upgrade at Millfield Public School, a science lab upgrade at Deniliquin High School and an integration project of access works at Heathcote High School.
The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW. This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.