The Morrison Government will provide an additional $10 million to improve COVID-19 hygiene measures in non-government schools that plan to have 50 per cent of their students back in the classroom by June 1.
Federal Member for Flinders, the Hon. Greg Hunt MP, said non-government schools on the Mornington Peninsula would benefit from the additional investment from the Coalition Government to enhance hygiene measures and help keep students and their families safe.
“This money can be used to fund extra soap, hand sanitiser or pay for additional cleaning,” Mr Hunt said.
“Washing hands with soap and water or hand sanitiser is an important part of practicing good hygiene that helps slow the spread of the coronavirus.
“As students return to the classroom, it is essential that the right protocols are in place to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19 and ensure the safety of teachers and principals.
“Our Government has taken a consistent position to follow the expert medical advice and the expert medical advice has been consistent that schools are safe for students and teachers with the right protocols in place.”
Minister for Education Dan Tehan said schools could use the extra funding for soap, hand sanitiser or extra cleaning.
“National Cabinet has recognised the importance of an education being delivered by a teacher in a classroom so as we continue to flatten the curve, all students and teachers are moving back to the classroom,” Mr Tehan said.
“This is excellent news for our children and their education and social wellbeing. It is particularly good news for vulnerable students because the evidence suggests they suffer most from being disconnected from school.”