Petition New Special Developmental School for Melbourne’s west

The petition of certain citizens of the State of Victoria draws to the attention of the Legislative Council the critical shortage of Special Developmental Schools (SDS) in Melbourne’s west.

Only two SDS currently service the western suburbs, and both are operating at over their capacity. As a result, children who meet the eligibility criteria for a SDS are unable to secure appropriate placement. Many families have been advised that there are no available SDS places for their child, despite their significant and complex disabilities.

Children who require a SDS have severe to profound intellectual disabilities, are non-verbal, or have multiple disabilities that require high levels of specialised support. When these children cannot access an SDS, they may be placed in settings that are not designed to meet their developmental, behavioural or communication needs.

It has been more than 38 years since a new SDS was built in Melbourne’s west. Over this time, the population of the region has grown substantially, contributing to increasing demand for SDS placements.

The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Council call on the Government to urgently plan, fund, and construct a new Special Developmental School in Melbourne’s west to meet current and future demand.