Wednesday, 5 March 2025

 Lee TARLAMIS (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (09:56): I had the pleasure of attending the official opening of three brand new schools in Clyde North: Mirniyan Primary School, Turrun Primary School and Wulerrp Secondary College. I was joined by the Minister for Education Ben Carroll for a memorable day of celebrations where we had the opportunity to engage with excited students, teachers and parents, along with the local school community. These openings mark an exciting new chapter and afford the growing Clyde North community greater opportunities to access a fantastic education close at home. Michael Galea and I have had the opportunity to visit these schools on a number of occasions during the construction and preparation stages alongside the passionate new principals. These cutting-edge facilities are designed to not only provide a top-tier education but instil a sense of pride in students, parents and the wider community. They are built to provide an environment where students can thrive and be supported as they build a solid foundation for their future.

At Mirniyan Primary School the focus is on values such as respect, care and growth. Students are encouraged to respect themselves, others and the environment, celebrating diversity and inclusivity. Turrum Primary fosters a similar ethos, emphasising respect, kindness, care and always striving to do one’s best. Meanwhile Wulerrp Secondary College teaches the importance of effort, respect for all cultures and the value of working together to achieve excellence while prioritising wellbeing.

The Victorian government’s commitment to education has been demonstrated by our $16.9 billion investment over the past 10 years, which has delivered a pipeline of school infrastructure projects, including 121 new schools between 2017 and 2026. Of these schools, 91 are in Melbourne’s high-growth areas, including 20 in Casey and nine in Cardinia, and we have also upgraded more than 2200 existing schools. Congratulations to the principals, founding students and staff of all these new schools, and I look forward to seeing them flourish and provide opportunities for generations to come.