Labor’s Albany cash splash promises primary school upgrades, modern TAFE equipment

Albany primary schools and South Regional TAFE were the targets of WA Labor’s latest election cash-splash yesterday, with more than $1.1 million pledged towards automation equipment and training machinery.

Albany TAFE is set to receive $400,000 worth of automation training equipment if the McGowan Government is re-elected.

The equipment will be used in new training workshops set to be built over the next three years, and earmarked to begin in November.

A further $742,000 was also promised for new equipment for courses in heavy and light automotive, engineering, cabinet making, civil construction, nursing and aged care.

Seven primary schools, including South Stirling, Little Grove, Yakamia and Flinders Park, were also promised $10,000 each for building refurbishments, playground equipment and public art projects.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery toured South Regional TAFE and Albany Senior High School yesterday to reveal the commitments, which she said would prepare students at all levels for the jobs of the future.

“The McGowan Government is committed to providing all WA children with a quality education, regardless of where they live,” she said.

“We have made elevating the role of STEM and science in our schools a key priority.

“We will continue to invest in resources and infrastructure to support these subjects, to ensure students are well prepared for the jobs of the future.”

Yesterday’s announcements join previous pledges of $8.5 million for new classrooms at Albany Senior High School and $1.5 million for classrooms at North Albany Senior High School, announced in January.