Minister for Education, James Merlino, today visited Gippsland to announce that the Andrews Labor Government’s first budget will include $7.6 million in funding to build a new school in Sale for children with disabilities.

Mr Merlino joined Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing, at the existing Sale Specialist School’s Desailly St campus to make the announcement.

The brand new Sale Specialist School will give students and teachers the space and high-quality facilities to learn and grow.

Due to continued growth in enrolment numbers, the Sale community has campaigned for the school’s three current campuses to be brought together on the one site.

A site for the new school was purchased last year, and planning and initial construction funding has previously been provided. The school community has already been working with an architect on its vision for the new school.

The Andrews Labor Government is making Victoria the education state, with planning already underway for school upgrades across the state.

The previous Coalition Government cut money for school buildings by half, leaving schools across regional Victoria falling apart.

The Labor Government’s plan to rebuild schools will make sure that local students, teachers and families get the support and quality education they deserve.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Education, James Merlino

“The Andrews Labor Government has listened to the local community, and we’re building a new Sale Specialist School. It will provide a modern facility for children with disabilities in the area.”

“Plans are already underway for school upgrades across the state. We’re fixing the neglect left by the Coalition and making Victoria the Education State.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria, Harriet Shing

“Parents, carers, staff and students at the Sale Specialist School have been doing it tough for too long. Gippsland kids, whatever their needs, deserve the same opportunities as every other Victorian student.”

“Today’s announcement is a huge win for School Council President, Jane Nash, and everyone else who has worked so hard with us over recent months to secure this funding.”