The decision to close Lindenow South Primary School from the start of term two has rightfully caused anger and upset in the local community, says Gippsland East Nationals MP, Tim Bull.

"It's very disappointing news the community has been told its school will close, despite several reassurances (including recently) from the Department of Education that it would stay open, as it searches for a new principal.

"This news has come as a complete surprise to parents, teachers and staff given the undertakings they received.

"On Friday morning I spoke to the Minister for Education and Deputy Premier, Ben Carroll, advising it is both my strong wish and that of the community that the school remains open, as was committed to on more than one occasion.

"I thank the Deputy Premier for his responsiveness and undertaking to come back to me at Parliament next week.

"It is disappointing the Department of Education did not provide a briefing to either the school community or myself that it’s commitment had changed, or bothered to sound out some recently retired principals to see if they were prepared to assist on a short-term basis, one of whom I have spoken to.

"Before a school with a good number of enrolments is closed, no stone should be left unturned to keep it open. This appears a case where the department has not been as proactive as it could have," he said

"It seems to have forgotten the Minister’s directive (when Meerlieu closed) that no school will be shut without the consent of the local community.

"Lindenow South is also a school that has received two recent funding allocations for upgrades.

Friday, 28 March 2025