In a recent response to questions made by Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland, the State Government indicated a willingness to re-engage with the Strathbogie Shire Council when it comes to school crossings in the region.
The Strathbogie Shire Council controversially made the decision to exit the program in March last year, saying it was the Victorian Government’s responsibility to step up and deliver the program.
The crossings on state-operated roads at St John’s Primary School in Euroa, Euroa Primary, Avenel Primary School, and St Joseph’s Catholic School in Nagambie are all now supervised following State Government involvement – with just the Nagambie Primary School, which operates on a council road, left without funding for supervisors.
Ms Cleeland put forward questions to the Minister for Local Government in April, asking about the school crossing program and what could be done to ensure all crossings are funded and kept supervised.
In a response, the Minister said the Strathbogie Shire Council was still able to re-enter the program and ensure the remaining crossing receives the necessary funding for supervision.
“The Department of Transport continues to advocate for Strathbogie Shire Council to rejoin the Program and would welcome the Shire’s return to the program should they wish to,” the Minister said.
Ms Cleeland said all crossings in the electorate should be funded to ensure children are kept safe as they enter and leave their schools.
“Funding disputes between our councils and the State Government are not helping anyone, and instead are putting the safety of our children at risk,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Conversations I’ve had with community members have made it clear that this is something worth fighting for, and we won’t stop until our children are safe.
“I’ve spoken with school staff, students, parents, council representatives, and concerned residents, as well as raised the issue in Parliament, asking for a resolution of this issue.
“With stories of near-misses and speeding vehicles, it is imperative that this is not left too late.
“The school crossing supervisor program is critical to keeping our children safe.”