Concerns Mount Over Use of School Facilities Trial

The Government’s Use of School Facilities Trial, aimed at opening school spaces to the broader community outside of school hours, has sparked widespread concern and frustration among members.

While the initiative is positioned as a way to increase community access to sporting grounds and school infrastructure, a large number of members have voiced serious concerns and reservations around legal liability, site safety, and the administrative burden of managing access, maintenance, and security often without additional support.

Many principals have expressed fear of a further erosion of local school autonomy, with School Councils potentially sidelined.

The APF has formally raised these issues with the Department and continues to advocate for:

• Proper and direct consultation with principals;
• Clear legal protections and protocols;
• Adequate staffing and funding support;
• Local decision-making via School Councils.

As the trial progresses, the APF will continue to represent members' concerns to the Department and Government, seeking practical solutions that do not further compromise the workload, safety, or professional standing of school leaders.