The Allan Labor Government is getting on with the job of building 100 new schools in communities that need them, with five new schools set to open in Melbourne and regional Victoria in time for Term 1 of 2026.

Acting Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced that construction will begin at five new primary schools, with a $280 million investment supporting more than 2,800 students to access the world-class facilities they deserve, close to home.

Toolern Waters Primary School (interim name) in Weir Views, south of Melton, will cater to 715 students, including 65 places for students with disability.

Tarneit Plains Primary School (interim name) in Truganina will accommodate 575 students, with 50 places reserved for students with disability.

In Wallan, Wallan East Primary School (interim name) will provide 525 students with a new school close to home.

Leneva (Frederic Street Road) Primary School (interim name) in Wodonga East will accommodate 525 students, including 50 places for students with disability, and will welcome students from Bandiana Primary School who have the option to relocate if they choose.

Families in Charlemont, south of Geelong, will be able to access modern, top-class facilities at Horseshoe Bend Primary School (interim name), with capacity for 525 students.

Leneva (Frederic Street Road) Primary School, Tarneit Plains Primary School and Toolern Waters Primary School will be designed as supported inclusion schools – giving every family the choice to send their children where they will thrive, whether that’s a special school or with extra support in the mainstream education system.

Tenders to build the new schools will open early this year and construction is expected to begin from the middle of 2024. The five new schools are in addition to three schools already scheduled for a 2026 opening, plus 14 schools opening this year and an extra six opening their doors to the community in 2025.

The funding is in addition to the Labor Government’s $14.9 billion investment since 2014 to deliver new schools and more than 1,940 school upgrades – generating approximately 21,200 jobs.

Quotes attributable to Acting Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“We’re proud to be giving students and their hard-working families in growing communities across our state the world-class schools they deserve, close to home.”

“These new schools will give children and teachers the modern facilities to set them up for success – and give families of children with additional needs a choice about their education.”

Quote attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie

“This investment will allow students to attend schools closer to home and learn in modern facilities that will help them prosper.”