In the 2026–27 State Budget, the Victorian Government is investing $1.6 billion to build, expand and modernise schools across the state.
This investment includes:
- $441.2 million for new schools. Three new schools will open in 2028. A new South Melbourne Primary School campus will open in 2029 and we’ll deliver additional stages at 3 recently opened schools in Mickleham, Clyde North and Point Cook. It also funds planning, design and early works construction at 3 more schools and campuses in North Melbourne, Preston and Clyde, as well as future schools.
- $104.0 million to acquire land for new schools and campuses in the rapidly growing local government areas of Cardinia, Mount Duneed, Hume, Melbourne, Mitchell and Wyndham.
- $294.8 million to deliver modern classrooms and spaces at 31 government schools. A further $1 million to plan upgrades at 4 government schools: Marlborough Primary School, Eltham East Primary School, Glenroy College and Bendigo Senior Secondary College.
- $173.7 million to create around 8,650 additional spaces for Victorian students in the 2027 school year through high-quality modular classrooms and buildings.
- $25.4 million to deliver small-scale capital works at 24 schools, plus an additional grant round.
The Budget also includes funding to maintain our schools. This will ensure they’re safe, modern and accessible. This funding includes:
- A $551.6 million investment over 5 years in school maintenance and compliance programs. This includes $28.8 million for the Accessible Buildings Program to improve access for students with disability and additional needs.
- $130.5 million ongoing for essential maintenance and compliance programs. This will help ensure Victorian schools are safe, modern and properly maintained.
This latest investment will support more than 4,000 new jobs in construction and associated industries. It will also create places for over 12,700 extra students in Victorian schools.
The Budget also provides $498.2 million to continue delivery of new and expanded early learning centres across the State in 2029 and 2030. This investment will support the Best Start, Best Life reforms.
This includes funding to support new kindergartens on or near government and low-fee non-government school sites. It also funds the expansion of existing services.
This investment will also contribute to the continued roll out of 50 government-owned and operated Early Learning Victoria centres. These centres are in communities that have the greatest need for more childcare places.
This Budget also includes $9.8 million for the Building Blocks Improvement and Inclusion grants.
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