BUILDING THE EDUCATION REVOLUTION

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO (15:33): I have had the opportunity over several months this year to represent the state government at the official openings of new school infrastructure and improvements under the federal government's BER scheme.

The government's $42 billion Nation Building, Economic Stimulus Plan was announced in February 2009, a plan to support jobs and stimulate local economies. The $16.2 billion Building the Education Revolution program is a key component of the Economic Stimulus Plan, with around 24,000 projects to be delivered over a period of four years, benefiting more than 9,000 schools Australia-wide.

In April, at the Athelstone schools, Senator Anne McEwen officially opened the refurbished multipurpose hall, library and classroom. The Athelstone junior primary and primary schools received a combined amount of $3,050,000 under the Primary Schools for the 21^st Century and National School Pride program.

Senator McEwen rightly pointed out that the school principals, staff, parents and tradespeople had worked together to deliver the important project and achieve a fantastic outcome, and I could not agree more with her. I understand that the Athelstone project supported the employment of approximately 106 workers.

During the month of August, another official opening was celebrated at the campus of the Paradise junior and primary schools. Senator Anne McEwen was unable to attend on the day and I was pleased to be able to speak on her behalf, with Jay Weatherill MP, Minister for Education. It was gratifying to see the good work and the reputation of the school being enhanced by the facilities that were opened. These included a new multipurpose hall or gymnasium, library refurbishment and the grounds refurbishment. A total of $2.125 million has been spent at the school—money really well spent.

At all the schools I had the opportunity to view the redevelopments and to appreciate the quality of construction and work undertaken as well as how much it enhances the learning and recreational capacity of the schools and their communities. It was obvious that all the projects involved a high level of commitment from those who had planned, submitted or constructed—great teamwork for the betterment of South Australia's children.

Earlier this month I also had the good fortune to be present at the blessing and official opening of the St Joseph's and St Mary's buildings at St Joseph's, Payneham. Senator McEwen told those assembled that the school had received $2.65 million from the federal government through the National School Pride and Primary Schools for the 21st Century elements of the BER.

With the funds they built a new multipurpose hall/gym with attached kitchen facilities and toilets which can be hired out for community use, as well. They have really made the most of the funding and space available as upstairs, on top of the gym, there are a couple of new classrooms and open learning areas with windows that overlook the inside of the hall below.

I think it is worthwhile repeating a couple of the comments made at the openings. Helen O'Brien, Assistant Director, Catholic Education SA stated, 'There has been no better investment in education than this.' The Principal of Paradise Primary School, Mr Chris Warnest, said, 'We will never see an investment like this in our lifetime again,' or words to that effect.

I cannot finish this quick contribution today without making mention of the most important people of all—the students I met and witnessed taking part in the celebrations. They were deservedly given key roles on each occasion. As well, we were treated to beautiful performances and demonstrations, and their behaviour was exemplary—in particular, the very young students. All teachers have every reason to be very proud of their students; they were a credit to their schools and their families. It is always a pleasure to be present at such occasions.

As mentioned, what the BER projects deliver is for teachers and students to be able to enjoy teaching and learning in the 21^st century facilities that they so richly deserve. As well, the essence of the economic stimulus was to achieve employment, and in that it well and truly delivered. I congratulate the federal government on its responsible stance and foresight. I also make mention of the excellent facilitation and leadership work of the CEO of DTEI, Mr Rod Hook, and his team.