- Published:
- Tuesday 5 December 2023
More students with disability and additional needs will have the support they deserve thanks to a funding boost by the Allan Labor Government – delivering more inclusive play areas, sensory gardens and outdoor learning spaces.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced 37 schools will share in more than $9 million to create facilities suitable for students of all abilities, as part of Round nine of the Labor Government’s Inclusive Schools Fund (ISF).
Since its establishment, around 420 creative projects have been funded through the transformational program, helping build inclusive learning spaces and specially designed accessible playgrounds – ensuring all students are able to fully participate, develop and succeed in Victorian government schools.
The Fund will see improvements made to play areas and support the creation of outdoor learning spaces with sensory equipment for students to play and socialise in.
Indoor spaces will also be renovated to promote more inclusive classroom organisation, increase participation and improve learning outcomes for students with disabilities or additional needs.
Some of the schools to receive funding include Lara Lake Primary School which has been allocated $299,999 for a new inclusive playground. Talbot Primary School has also been allocated $299,741 for an all-seasons outdoor learning and gathering space, while Eskdale Primary School will receive $193,526 for a sensory garden.
The Labor Government launched the ISF in 2015 to help schools cater for students whose additional needs require extra facilities. A total of $80 million has been invested to deliver these works throughout Victoria.
The Government is investing nearly $1.6 billion in the Disability Inclusion program to better respond to the needs of students with disability, ensuring they can participate and achieve their full potential at school and beyond.
This year, another $235 million is giving more students with disability the support they deserve, with a focus on students in specialist schools – as well as supporting parents and carers of children with disability with things like out-of-school-hours care and space for specialist medical appointments within special schools.
For more information about the Inclusive Schools Fund, visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/inclusive-schools-fund
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll
“We’re ensuring every child and young person in Victoria can meet their potential and access great education.”
“We’re proud to continue investing in the Inclusive Schools Fund – giving schools the infrastructure they need so more students can fully participate and succeed in their years of schooling and beyond.”
Quote attributable to Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn
“Our landmark Disability Inclusion reforms are supporting students of all abilities to thrive at school. We’re making sure that this has a lasting impact by not only investing in facilities to help students thrive, but also making it easier for parents and carers to access the essential services they need.”