The Allan Labor Government is making sure schools across Victoria are well-prepared for the upcoming bushfire season by providing grants to slash vegetation growth and reduce the risk of fire.

Member for Melton Steve McGhie today announced Toolern Vale and District Primary School is among 332 government schools across 348 campuses that would share in $8.412 million to carry out essential maintenance work through the Bushfire Preparedness (Vegetation) Program (BPVP).

The program was introduced in 2018 to help schools undertake essential vegetation clearance around school buildings prior to the bushfire season and in accordance with municipal fire danger periods.

Schools receiving funds are listed on the Bushfire at Risk Register (BARR), with the work aimed at mitigating the risk of harm to the school’s community and buildings in the event of a bushfire.

The BPVP also provides a School Support Program, where an accredited Bushfire Planning and Design consultant visits a school twice a year to help them prepare for the upcoming bushfire season while also making sure they complete a Vegetation Management Plan every 3 years.

The Labor Government has invested $16.9 billion in public education projects over the past decade, building new schools and upgrading more than 2,000 schools while supporting more than 26,000 jobs in construction and associated industries.

The Allan Labor Government is ensuring local schools are as safe and prepared as they can be. We continue to provide Victorian students with access to world-class environments for learning and thriving in the Education State.

Quotes attributable to Member for Melton Steve McGhie

“Preparing Toolern Vale and District Primary School means that staff and students can feel safe and prepared during the warmer months, and hopefully these works can ease any worries they may have during bushfire season.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll

“We know how devastating bushfires are and just how long-lasting their impacts can be, and that’s why we’re continuing to support schools to be as fire-ready as possible.”

“These grants will help more than 330 schools at risk of fire clear vegetation – to protect their classrooms and facilities in the event of a bushfire.”