Tanya Plibersek, Shadow Minister for Education and Shadow Minister for Women, joined Scott Emerson on 4BC Drive for their weekly segment.

When asked what the Labor Government’s new $440 million Schools Upgrade Fund would go towards, Shadow Education Minister Plibersek said there were two parts.

“Part of the money will go to building upgrades, better ventilation, making sure that the windows and doors can open and shut, and letting the air flow through outdoor learning areas,” she said.

The other part focuses on building children’s social and emotional well-being, which the minister says students have missed out on learning and making friends.

When asked about delaying the school year, Minister Plibersek said that it is also down to the supply issues the state is facing.

“We are keen to see kids back in the classrooms as soon as its safe for them to be there,” she told Scott Emerson.

“Obviously, it would be easier for kids to return safely if we had more access to more rapid antigen tests.”

Press PLAY to hear more of Tanya Plibersek with Scott Emerson this week