PHILIP RUDDOCK TO VISIT ST AGATHA’S CATHOLIC SCHOOL ON MONDAY 30TH APRIL
The Member for Berowra, Philip Ruddock MP will celebrate with St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School, Pennant Hills, New South Wales next Monday 30th April 2007 at 9 a.m. for the installation of floor coverings and the purchase of classroom furniture.
“St Agatha’s Catholic Primary School received $20,000 under the Investing in Our Schools Program and I am delighted to visit their school again on this occasion,” Mr Ruddock said.
“This funding has allowed for the installation of new carpet in three classrooms and the purchase of new tables and chairs. The learning environment is now safer and more comfortable. The students take more pride in their school and are more productive.”
The $1 billion Investing in Our Schools Program was announced by the Prime Minister during the 2004 Federal Election Campaign and on 19 February 2007, was increased by $181 million. $127 million will be provided for state government schools and $54 million for non-government schools in Australia.
The Program provides $354 million for non-government schools to fund projects identified by the schools. A further $827 million is provided for government schools. There is no limit placed on the amount for individual infrastructure grants to non-government schools however $154 million has been set aside to fund small projects up to $75,000 in project value.
“During the 2005/06 financial year 1321 non-government projects, for 1216 schools, were approved, 1036 for small projects totalling up to $75 000 and another 285 uncapped projects. These projects totalled nearly half of the non-governments total allocation of $354 million,” Philip Ruddock said.
The Australian Government’s total commitment of $789 million for non-government school capital works over the period 2005-8, represents an estimated $415 million increase in funding over the previous four year funding period.