Boosting local jobs and school infrastructure

The NSW Government is investing $157.8 million to improve school infrastructure and boost local jobs through the installation of energy efficient smart LED lights, with three local schools benefitting from this program.

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure, said that the program is improving the quality of classrooms, reducing electricity bills and providing a stimulus response for local jobs as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Local schools that have benefitted from this program include: Peakhurst West Public School, Narwee Public School and Georges River College Penshurst Girls Campus.

“Particularly within south west and western Sydney, many local tradespeople have been unable to work due to COVID restrictions and this program will provide them with work that will also benefit our community and environment,” Mr Coure said.

“These smart LED lights will be manufactured here in NSW and installed by NSW tradespeople. This is fantastic news for students, tradespeople and our economy.”

Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning, Sarah Mitchell, said improved lighting will have a positive impact on students’ education.

“A high quality classroom and learning environment has a positive impact on students and that is why this Government is investing record amounts on improving our classrooms, libraries, halls and administration areas,” Minister Mitchell said.

“The smart LED lights mimic natural light which can help students’ education by improving their attentiveness and comprehension. This program is a great way for schools to reduce their power and maintenance bills, while also providing work for local tradies.”

Local tradespeople will be able to tender for lighting upgrade opportunities via the Local Trades Scheme, an online platform where small businesses can engage directly with the Department of Education to bid for work at public schools in their local communities.

The LED Lighting Upgrade Program will continue to bring savings on electricity bills, improve the sustainability of schools and take steps towards the NSW Government’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The NSW Government is investing $7.9 billion over the next four years, continuing its program to deliver 215 new and upgraded schools to support communities across NSW.

This is the largest investment in public education infrastructure in the history of NSW.