The WA Government has announced it will set aside almost $40 million as part of its 2026-27 State Budget for targeted upgrades and maintenance in public schools, to be made available following the repeal of the Public Education Endowment Act 1909.
The funds will be used to target high-priority works at schools, such as:
- security alarm system upgrades;
- accessibility upgrades;
- roof space remediation;
- fire door replacements; and
- power upgrades.
The Public Education Endowment Repeal Bill 2025 is currently before the Parliament of Western Australia and seeks to abolish the Trust created in 1909 to support public education, by using gifted land as a source of income.
The Trust has assets worth approximately $40 million but has not used these assets or received any income for several years, said Education Minister, Sabine Winton.
“The Public Education Endowment Trust was established over a century ago with a clear purpose, to support our public schools,” said Ms Winton.
“Today we’re honouring that legacy by ensuring almost $40 million flows directly to real, tangible improvements for public schools right across Western Australia.”
The most recent round of grants approved by the Trust was in 2013, which included funding for university research projects. Other examples of grants previously approved by the Trust range from scholarships to the purchase of a sailing ship.
The funding commitment will also ensure that the assets can be used where they are needed most, including transferring land held in Fremantle from the Trust to the State Government, so it can be considered for future development opportunities.
The land is located on the corner of Knutsford Street and Amherst Street in Fremantle and has been earmarked for housing.
“This move is a win-win – delivering a boost in maintenance for schools and providing more housing opportunities in the longer term,” said Planning and Lands Minister, John Carey.
“The Cook Labor Government is investing record amounts in social housing and affordable rentals and to unlock land for new housing. This transfer presents another opportunity to build more homes in Fremantle.”
