General News
5 June, 2025
Stawell West set to look a million bucks
In a tight state budget handed down this week, there was some joy on the horizon for Stawell.
The Victorian Government this week announced Stawell West Primary School will receive a $4.7 million upgrade.
The Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora visited the school to announce the good news and tour school facilities.
The Victorian Government is delivering a major boost to public education in Western Victoria, announcing a $4.7 million upgrade for Stawell West Primary School as part of its 2025 Budget.
The funding will modernise and improve the school’s infrastructure, ensuring students have access to safer and more functional learning environments.
Principal Anthony Cain welcomed the investment, saying the much- needed works will focus on upgrading the school’s façade, replacing the ageing roof, and removing asbestos from the premises.
“This was built in 1962, it’s been here a long time so it definitely does need a lot of upgrading. It’s had several upgrades over the years, but this is going to really bring it up,” Mr Cain said.
A significant component of the project will be the removal of asbestos throughout the school, along with new windows, roofing and improved classroom design.
“The roof leaks like a sieve. Back in the day they had that box guttering, and it leaks all the time,” he said.
Mr Cain said while the classrooms themselves won’t drastically change, the upgrades will make a real difference to functionality and comfort.
“It’s going to create the classroom space it’s going to be more open, it’s going to be a lot more functional. This upgrade will be in line with what we need, particularly the changes we’ve made in the learning that kids do. It’s just going to facilitate that so much better,” he said.
Plans also include the removal and replacement of the school’s existing toilet blocks, with new junior and senior amenities to be constructed.
Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora praised the investment as a reflection of the government’s commitment to regional education.
“In a sense the task is to create a safe environment where the kids feel confident to learn. This is what public education is all about, creating environments where all little Victorians can get the same opportunities.
"And sometimes that means additional investments for them to get that opportunity,” Ms Ermacora said.
She said the upgrade was a tangible example of the government’s values in action.
“A $4.7 million grant to a school like Stawell West is a fantastic reflection of the Allan Labor Government’s values.
"All children deserve a quality education, no matter where they live and no matter what their circumstances are. This school is going to be a safer school, which is really important.
“As an outer regional person myself, I’m very proud that our government is supportive of all regions and education in all communities.
"This is a beautiful example of our commitment to refresh and renew this school and bring it up to standard."
