- $20 million Woodside Energy contribution to support the next phase of major Roebourne District High School redevelopment
- New facilities to provide greater focus on Aboriginal history, culture and language
- $72.4 million first stage of construction set to open ahead of schedule
- Woodside's total $50 million contribution through the Cook Government's Resources Community Investment Initiative to also support Perth Concert Hall revitalisation
The almost-completed first stage of the Roebourne District High School redevelopment is set to open ahead of schedule, as Woodside Energy commits $20 million to support the next phase of construction.
Premier Roger Cook visited the school today to tour the upgraded facilities and announce construction will now commence on new secondary school classrooms, with the support of Woodside Energy through the Cook Government's Resources Community Investment Initiative (RCII).
Much of the $72.4 million first-stage works, which began in June 2023, will be open to students in time for the start of Term 1 next month. The upgraded facilities to date include the primary school, language centre, multipurpose hall, administration, student services (welcome centre), performing arts space, cafeteria, deliveries area and landscaping.
Final works being undertaken include the science learning areas, library, car park and landscaping, which are well ahead of theexpected project completion date of September 2026.
The redevelopment includes a particular focus on the delivery of programs to engage Aboriginal children, and a design that provides greater opportunities for all staff and students to understand and respect Aboriginal history, culture and language.
The second phase of works, supported by Woodside Energy's RCII contribution, will deliver additional classrooms for advisory programs, rooms to support pastoral care and preparation areas for teachers, Aboriginal Islander education officers and student support services.
These facilities will support students' academic success at school within their cultural context, and assist in retaining and boosting student enrolment through the senior secondary years.
The $20 million commitment to Roebourne District High School is part of Woodside Energy's broader $50 million commitment to the RCII, with $30 million today committed to the transformation of Perth Concert Hall.
Works will commence on the $150.3 million redevelopment of the iconic venue next month, with the revitalised Perth Concert Hall to provide a home for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra when it reopens in 2028.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
"This is an incredible project, with significant community engagement ensuring the Roebourne District High School community's needs and aspirations were incorporated into its development.
"It's fantastic to see the progress that has been made ahead of students returning to school for Term 1, which is a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved.
"This redevelopment will significantly enhance the educational experience of local students here in Roebourne, providing them with state-of-the-art facilities that honour and integrate their cultural heritage.
"I would like to acknowledge Woodside Energy's contribution through the RCII, which will significantly expand the existing scope of the Roebourne District High School redevelopment and support the revitalisation of the iconic Perth Concert Hall for all to enjoy."
Comments attributed to Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"I am thrilled that staff and students are now able to benefit from all the new facilities and additions at the school.
"This has been a collaborative effort to ensure that students and staff have a high-quality learning environment to be proud of, and also a strong connection to Aboriginal history, culture and language."
Comments attributed to Woodside Energy chief executive Meg O'Neill:
"Our investment in the Roebourne District High School upgrades builds on our long-term commitment to positive regional education outcomes through the Karratha and Roebourne Education Initiative.
"The education of our young people in a culturally appropriate environment, which sets them up for success, was a key consideration in our decision to support the upgrades.
"We are also pleased to contribute to the revitalisation of the iconic Perth Concert Hall, a venue that has been at the centre of much of Western Australia's modern cultural history.
"Its redevelopment will secure the long-term future of orchestral music in the State and a home for the West Australian Symphony Orchestra."
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"This major redevelopment has been an important investment in the future of local students and the wider community, and their input has been integral to the design of the new facilities.
"I am proud to have championed this critical project and it is fantastic to see the progress that has been made."
