Schools, Cleaning

In reply to Mr PISONI (Unley) (24 July 2015). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Minister for Education and Child Development, Minister for the Public Sector): I have been advised of the following:

The Department for Education and Child Development's cleaning budget funds the daily clean of schools during school terms to occur between 6.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday.

In some instances this means that cleaners will be onsite for part of their shift during school hours. This is managed by the site leader to minimise any disruption to classes.

Schools have the flexibility to increase cleaning times beyond this set time on the understanding that schools would manage any additional cost within their existing budgets. The decision to meet additional costs is determined at the school level.

In December 2010, a circular was sent to principals and regional directors outlining measures to be taken with the introduction of the new cleaning services award.