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More than $2 billion has been promised for public school infrastructure projects over the next four years, including funding to help kickstart the build of a new high school in one of Perth’s fastest growing regions.
A total of $68.4 million will be handed down for land and early works for Alkimos North Senior High School as part of the 2026 to 2027 State Budget, to be delivered at the beginning of May.
The $754 million in additional funding from this year’s budget also includes upgrades to student capacity at three primary schools and one high school in the metropolitan area, while six schools will be allocated funding to progress major upgrades.
Planning on nine other major upgrades will also continue.
Between now and 2030, the state government plans to open 11 new primary schools and two new high schools, which Education Minister Sabine Winton said was “desperately needed in these growing suburbs”.
Winton said investment in new and upgraded public schools across Western Australia was important for the state’s future.
“As part of this year’s budget, we’re investing in expanding four schools in growing communities,” she said.
“What it’s about is making sure that every child has access to a great local school.”
Speaking at a press conference at Piara Waters Primary School, WA Premier Roger Cook said he wanted to ensure students were able to attend “vibrant schools with good equipment, well-resourced teaching staff and supports that we need to continue to make sure that education is a bright star on the landscape in Western Australia.”
He said Piara Waters was an example of a school “bursting at the seams” with 1100 students enrolled and more expected into the future.
“Which is why, as part of the budget, we will invest $23.2 million in new classrooms here,” he said.
“We’re also funding to meet future demand, which is why we’ve committed to building a brand-new school in the next year, with the planning name of Piara Waters West Primary School … to continue to cater for this booming community.
“Our budget is delivering a strong investment in education for all young Western Australians regardless of where they live.”
Treasurer Rita Saffioti said the funding would “make sure our growing communities have the schools and infrastructure they need, both now and into the future.”
“This funding will deliver better facilities for students and teachers, support local jobs, and ensure our schools are ready for future population growth,” she said.
“We’re planning ahead and delivering for schools and families right across WA.”
Funding breakdown
$68.4 million for land and early works for the new Alkimos North Senior High School.
$78.2 million in funding will be allocated to progress major upgrades at six schools across the state:
- $21.4 million for Champion Bay Senior High School’s new sports hall and refurbishments to its existing sports hall
- $16.2 million for a new sports hall with sports science facilities at Belridge Secondary College
- $12.1 million for Byford Primary School’s new early childhood education block
- $10.7 million for Glen Forrest Primary School for a new early childhood education block
- $10.7 million for a new childhood education block at Cowaramup Primary School
- $7.1 million for classroom and building upgrades at Geraldton Senior High School
$96.2 million to expand capacity at four schools:
- Harrisdale Senior High School – $40.8 million for 600 additional students
- Riva Primary School – $21 million for 240 additional students
- Piara Waters Primary School – $23.2 million for 440 additional students
- Inglewood Primary School – $11.2 million for a new early childhood education facility
$400 million boost to school maintenance and minor works:
- $218.6 million increase to base maintenance
- $50.5 million for upgrades to roofs, toilets, and hard courts
- $52.2 million for targeted maintenance and minor works upgrades
- $86.9 million to deliver the final tranches of the Cool the Schools program and minor works election commitments
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Holly Thompson is a journalist with WAtoday, specialising in education and the environment.Connect via X or email.From our partners
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