AIR-CONDITIONING DELIVERED FOR SUNSHINE COAST STATE SCHOOLS

Every single classroom, library and staff room in every single Sunshine Coast state school is now air conditioned in time for Term 2, 2022 as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s $477 million Cooler Cleaner Schools Program.

Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton and Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt announced the achievement had been delivered more than two months ahead of schedule at Noosa District State High School today.

Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said out of 1,258 Queensland state schools, 649 schools assessed as needing air conditioning in classrooms, libraries, and staff rooms now have access to it.

“That includes 49 schools on the Sunshine Coast, with a total investment of around $27.9 million covering a combined total of more than 1,170 spaces across the region,” Mr Skelton said.

“This program has already helped our students and staff feel more comfortable in teaching and learning environments.”

Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt said the use of air ventilation and air conditioning systems that introduce fresh air from outside could help minimise transmission of COVID-19 in schools.

“Our investment also includes $71 million over 3 years to expand solar panel installations on state school rooftops to assist in offsetting the additional energy air conditioners will use,” said Mr Hunt.

Education Minister Grace Grace said the project was due for completion in June this year, but was fast tracked so that state school students, teachers and staff on the Sunshine Coast and elsewhere could enjoy air conditioning sooner.

“The Palaszczuk Government remains committed to providing quality school facilities for Queensland,” Ms Grace said.

“Our Cooler Cleaner Schools Program supported around 1,000 jobs during the height of the pandemic, as well as a pipeline of work as part of the Palaszczuk Government’s economic recovery plan for Queensland.

“During 2021–22, we are delivering an overall infrastructure investment portfolio valued at almost $1.9 billion, driving the Queensland economy by supporting more than 4,100 jobs.”

Noosa District State High School Principal Stacy Wilmore said that the new air conditioning was very well received by the local school community, particularly given the local climate.

“Controlled temperatures ensure all students stay healthy, comfortable and focused in any weather and they also ensure both students and teachers are motivated to work to the best of their abilities,” Ms Wilmore said.

“It feels comfortable to study and learn in an environment without being impacted by external factors like the temperature.

“The air conditioning project has significantly improved the quality of our learning environments across both of our campuses for students and has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from our entire school community.”

For more information on the Cooler Cleaner Schools Program visit: https://alt-qed.qed.qld.gov.au/programs-initiatives/department/building-education/major-projects/cooler-cleaner-schools