In Central Bendigo, families are facing a significant challenge: overcrowded public high schools forcing many to consider private education as the only viable option. This situation has become untenable for countless families who seek affordable, quality education for their children. As a parent in Central Bendigo, I have personally faced the distress of limited choices and high costs, and I know many others share this struggle.

Bendigo is experiencing rapid growth, and its educational infrastructure has not kept pace with the needs of its population, especially in Central Bendigo where the demand for public years 7-10 schooling is critically high. Currently, a total of seven new high schools are required to serve the Bendigo region adequately. Without immediate intervention, overcrowding will continue to compromise the quality of education, limiting opportunities for our young students.

There is a clear and urgent need for the Victorian State Government to reassess and commit to expanding educational facilities in Central Bendigo. Establishing a new public high school for years 7-10 is a viable and necessary solution that would alleviate the pressure on existing schools, enabling smaller class sizes and more personalized instruction, which are essential for academic success.

Statistics show that regions with overcrowded schools often reflect lower educational outcomes. The lack of public high school options not only affects educational quality but also causes undue financial stress, limiting fair access to education for all families. Studies have proven that investing in education reaps substantial benefits for society, including higher graduation rates and better long-term economic prospects.

We propose that the Victorian State Government engages with local stakeholders, surveys current school capacities, and prioritizes funding for the construction of new public schools in Central Bendigo. This will ensure that all children have access to quality education without overcrowding or financial barriers.

Please join me in calling on the Victorian State Government to prioritize our children’s education and future by establishing more public high school facilities in Bendigo. Sign this petition to make your voice heard and to support the future of Bendigo’s youth. Together, we can create positive change for our community.