A Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will fight to preserve the historic Camberwell Primary School and deliver the facilities its students need with a $9.1 million commitment.
Opened in the 1800s, Camberwell Primary School's student population has since grown to nearly 700 students, much greater than the 150 students it was initially intended to cater for, with the campus now stretching over the road to a leased facility.
Along with growing pains, the students are being let down by decrepit and dangerous facilities. Rain seeps through the ceilings and down the walls of the 150-year-old tired main building, ruining resources, artwork, carpets and causing mould growth and offensive odours to develop.
The running water creates a slipping hazard and a risk of electrocution for both students and staff, as does the lingering damp and mould growth.
Other facilities are also deteriorating, with the toilets in a state of disrepair and windows stuck closed due to timber frame rot, which means the school fails to meet the Department of Education's own COVID airflow regulations.
The Liberals and Nationals' commitment of $9.1 million will prevent further deterioration of the school's heritage structures and deliver new or upgraded facilities to support the students' learning.
The funding will see the roof repaired to prevent further water ingress, the damaged administration building upgraded, as well as the redevelopment of the West Wing into new classrooms and community facilities.
Victorian Liberal Leader, Matt Guy, said that after years of neglect and lost learning, students and staff of Camberwell Primary School could look forward to safe and comfortable education spaces.
"My team and I understand the impact that COVID lockdowns have had on our kids and that's why my Government will deliver real solutions, whether it be bricks and mortar, or face-to-face learning guarantees."
"Years of superficial repairs have not addressed the root of the problem here at Camberwell Primary School. My government will not resort to band-aid solutions."
"This is another announcement to deliver world-class schools, new and old, for a world-class education system."
Liberal Candidate for Hawthorn, John Pesutto, who has worked closely with the School on their needs since his first briefing with them on 4 March 2022, said today's announcement would bring the school up to standard by considering the future growth and needs of the community.
"In the 'Education State', children are made to sit amongst puddles as mould grows in the walls and under carpets. Students of this fantastic school should be supported with buildings that are safe, modern and conducive to even greater learning".
"Only a Liberals and Nationals Government will deliver the real solutions this school deserves."
