New COLA for Australia Street Infants School

New COLA for Australia Street Infants School

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

The Minister for Infrastructure, Transport,

Regional Development and Local Government

Leader of the House

Member for Grayndler

December 10 2009

Federal Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese today opened the new covered outdoor learning area (COLA) at The Australia Street Infants School in Newtown.

The Rudd Labor Government contributed $75,000 to the cost of the structure through its Building the Education Revolution program and the school contributed a further $20,000 itself.

Mr Albanese said this was a great example of the Government and schools working together to get the best outcomes for children. The project helped support six local jobs.

"This is the great thing about this program. We’re supporting jobs, stimulating local economies and investing in important infrastructure for the long-term," Mr Albanese said.

The COLA was designed by Matthew Chan of SCALE Architects and built by BJC Constructions. School principal Bernard Cheng managed the project himself and consulted with local parents who were architects.

The school envisages that the COLA will provide a space to gather that will engage, delight and inspire students.

Mr Albanese was impressed by the modern look of the structure. "Whether it’s the heat of summer or a rainy day, there’s still the opportunity for kids to get outdoors and get a bit of fresh air," he said.

The school has also received $879,000 under the Rudd Labor Government’s BER program to complete a new classroom block which should be finished next year.

Further information about this project and all schools funded is available at www.buildingtheeducationrevolution.gov.au or at: www.economicstimulusplan.gov.au