WA Parliament Question on Notice regarding the number and usage of demountable buildings in WA public schools, revealing significant reliance on them and long-term placement at schools.

AnsweredQoN 65Legislative Assembly
Asked
20 May 2025
Portfolio
Education

QuestionView source ↗

(1) As of this date, what is the total number of demountables in use in WA public schools? (2) Of the number specified in (1), how many of these are being used as classrooms? (3) For what purposes are the remaining demountables being used – by category and quantity? (4) Does the Department monitor the length of time that a demountable remains in use at specific WA public schools? (5) If "yes" to (4), how many demountables have been located at the same WA public school site for more than 3 years?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered
25 June 2025
Responded by
Minister for Education
Response time
10 days
As part of the 2025-26 State Budget, the Cook Labor Government allocated $1.7 billion towards new schools and upgrades to education infrastructure over the next four years, which will help meet the needs of growing communities across Western Australia.
The Department of Education advises:
(1)   As of March 2025, there were 3,935 demountable and transportable buildings located on school sites and in other locations.
(2) 3,096 are used as classrooms.
(3) The remaining transportable/demountable buildings are listed below.
Building Type
Total
Administration
231
Administration (Donga)
11
Bathroom
166
Canteen
17
Cleaner Storeroom
1
House
47
Library
68
Library (Double size)
19
Other
16
Shed
3
Staff Room
11
Toilet
249
(4) Yes
(5) 2,514

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