Ag colleges to benefit from $200m fund scheme

The State’s five agricultural colleges are among the major winners of the McGowan Government’s new $200 million public school funding scheme, sharing more than $1.2 million for maintenance and upgrades.

On Sunday, Premier Mark McGowan announced $35 million for urgent minor works at schools, including painting and paving, with an additional $165 million for major maintenance.

Through the cash commitment, WA College of Agriculture — Denmark will be bolstered by $654,533 and WA College of Agriculture — Harvey will receive $249,382.

At Denmark, the funds will be used for roof replacements, carpark resurfacing, electrical upgrades, external painting and structural repairs across the campus.

The McGowan Government will also send $140,994 to WA College of Agriculture — Narrogin, while the Cunderdin campus will add $92,889 to its wallet and Morowa’s agricultural college will receive $69,664. Of the $200 million total, $46 million is yet to be allocated.

Mr McGowan trumpeted the funding scheme, attributing the available funds to the State Government’s positive State Budget.

“We have the flexibility to deliver this program of works because we got the finances back on track and the Budget back to surplus,” he said.

“It’s crucial we continue to invest in local schools to make sure facilities remain at the highest standard for our kids.”

The maintenance work is expected to generate about 3150 jobs across WA.