By LIA SPENCER
A LOCAL MP has called for funding for a new primary school in the City of Casey.
Narre Warren South Labor MP Judith Graley has called on Minister for Education Martin Dixon to commit to providing funding for construction of the Casey Central East Primary School in this year’s State Budget.
Ms Graley said that Casey Central East Primary School was desperately needed to cater for the growing local community as surrounding schools had nearly 1000 students in each.
“Labor committed to building Casey Central East Primary School at the last State Election, however the Liberals have failed to match that commitment. Funding was provided for land acquisition in the 2011 State Budget, yet no further funding for design or construction was provided in last year’s budget, leaving Casey Central East Primary School to face an uncertain future,” Ms Graley said.
“Construction at the estate of the new school site is well underway and families have already begun to move in. Yet, where there should be a new school, there will be an empty paddock.”
“Local schools are at or near capacity, and urgently need relief that Casey Central East Primary School will provide.”
A Department of Education spokesman said the department recognised the need for a new primary school in the Casey area in the coming years and had purchased a suitable site in preparation for its future construction.
“The Government must responsibly balance and prioritise the needs of over 1000 government schools in Victoria,” the spokesperson said.
“There is currently capacity in the surrounding primary school network for new students.”
