Ms D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park—Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Minister for Solar Homes) (09:56:206:): I rise to acknowledge a very significant investment in the Merriang Special Developmental School announced in last week’s Labor government budget of 2022–23. Merriang Special Developmental School will receive $5.32 million to deliver the final stages of the school’s master plan for both South Morang and Lalor campuses. This funding goes a long way for the junior campus in South Morang and will deliver multipurpose rooms where students can safely participate in physical, music, arts and home craft activities. I had the opportunity to visit Merriang junior campus in South Morang last week and meet with the principal, Ebony Mitchell, and a number of students. I was reminded yet again of what a wonderful school this is and the excellent education opportunities and experiences the staff at this school are providing for their students, who have physical or multiple disabilities or complex health needs. I would like to congratulate Ebony Mitchell and the rest of the Merriang Special Developmental School staff, students and their families for their amazing work and sense of collegiality.

The local schools in my electorate do so much to give every child the best start in life, and the $5.32 million announced in our budget ensures that students with special needs receive the same opportunities as every other student in my electorate to achieve their very best. This budget like no other has shown what Labor is really about. It is about investment in our people through our schools. We understand that people matter, and we show it by delivering for the wellbeing of every Victorian.

Hansard Link: Merriang Special Development School