29 January 2026
The Allan Labor Government is easing the cost of living with the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund. And we’re giving families more choice in growing areas, with 19 new schools opening this week.
Real cost of living help for families
Gary Maas MP announced that the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund is available from this term – and payments are increasing.
The fund supports more than 190,000 eligible students a year to attend camps and sporting programs, go on excursions, attend graduations, and more.
These are core school experiences that no student should ever miss out on.
This year, eligible students will receive $400 per year – up from $154 for eligible primary students and $256 for eligible secondary students.
The fund is targeted at families who need support the most, from both government and non-government schools.
Visit www.vic.gov.au/camps-sports-and-excursions-fund to see more about the fund.
A record number of new schools opening
Every family deserves a great, local Government school in their area. That’s why we’re building more of them.
Gary Maas MP today welcomed students to Cranbourne North’s brand-new Kala Primary School. It is one of 19 new schools welcoming their first students this week.
This is the most schools to ever open in one year, with enrolment places increasing by more than 11,000.
The Labor Government promised 100 new government schools. Today, that promise is delivered.
• 50 percent of new schools built across Australia are built in Victoria.
• Our 100 new schools since 2019 – and more than 2,300 school upgrades – have supported more than 92,000 additional school places.
• Construction has started on a further 2 new schools to open in 2027.
Visit schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/new-schools for a full list of new schools opening in 2026.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Ben Carroll:
“We’re funding practical cost-of-living help while making sure no child misses out on things that make school fun.”
“By opening 19 new schools this week, we’ve delivered on our commitment to build 100 new schools by 2026.”
Quotes attributable to Gary Maas MP, Member for Narre Warren South:
“Kala Primary School has now opened its doors to students for the very first time. This school will support and foster a new community of teachers, staff, students and families in Cranbourne North.”
“I’m proud that one of the 19 brand new schools opening across the state today is our very own Kala Primary School, delivered by the Allan Labor Government. This new school will provide a quality education and facilities for families in Cranbourne North.”
“My thanks to the architects, designers, builders, tradies and department officials for working on this project. This new school is very much welcomed with thanks to the local community for their patience during the building process. The Allan Labor Government is building what our community needs.”