The purpose of the Schools Upgrade Fund (SUF) is to provide more equitable access to resources to support schools to help keep students and school staff safe, and get students’ education back on track after disruptions caused by COVID-19.
About the fund
The $270.8 million Schools Upgrade Fund will deliver funding over two years to improve school facilities across the country.
This funding will help schools to provide their students with improved learning facilities in a COVID-19 safe environment.
$50 million will support projects in schools, including:
- A Targeted Round providing $18 million for capital projects, as announced as part of the Government’s 2022 election commitments.
- An Open Round providing $32 million for much needed improvements to learning facilities including the purchase of air purifiers, upgrading ventilation systems, building outdoor learning spaces, upgrading ICT equipment, and urgent repairs.
A further $215 million will be provided in 2023 to help public schools meet the cost of important infrastructure projects such as new classrooms, buildings or other major refurbishments and upgrades. The Government will work with state and territory governments to distribute this funding based on need.
Targeted Round
$18 million will be allocated to individual schools for capital projects, as announced as part of the Government’s 2022 election commitments.
Schools do not need to apply for this funding.
Open Round
All schools (both government and non-government) can apply online for grants of up to $25,000.
An application can seek funding for multiple eligible projects if the total funding sought does not exceed $25,000. Where a school is composed of multiple campuses, the school may apply to deliver projects across multiple campuses, as long as the total funding sought does not exceed $25,000.
Applications open Monday 28 November 2022 and close 11.59 pm AEDT on Friday 24 February 2023. Successful schools will be notified in May 2023, with funding to be provided in June 2023.
The department has developed the Schools Upgrade Fund Guidelines which provide more information on eligible projects and should be read carefully before completing and submitting an application for funding.
All applications for funding under the Open Round should be made via the online application form.
Further information is available in the Schools Upgrade Fund Factsheet and frequently asked questions.
Note: The program appropriation includes implementation costs.
