The state government of Western Australia has selected EduWest as the preferred bidder for the develop 8 new schools through a public private partnership (PPP) project.

EduWest Partners is composed of Macquarie Capital Group Limited, Badge Constructions WA Pty Ltd, Perkins WA Pty Ltd and Spotless Facility Services Pty Ltd.

The team beat out competition form two other shortlisted teams: Decmil Programmed, comprising Decmil Group Limited, Programmed Maintenance Services Ltd and Cockram Construction Pty Ltd; and Plenary Schools, comprising Plenary Origination Pty Ltd, Pindan Pty Ltd and Compass Group.

The contract is expected to be signed by the end of September with work to begin from October.

The project involves the development of four public primary schools and four public secondary schools. The 4 new primary schools will be built in Landsdale East, Alkimos South West, Baldivis North and Byford South West and the new secondary schools are in Ellenbrook North, Lakelands, Hammond Park and Harrisdale.

The project includes the design, build, finance and maintenance of the new schools for a period of 25 years. The PPP also includes facilities management services such as waste disposal, utilities management, gardening, cleaning and security.

The total project investment is estimated at A$370 million (US$271.3 million).

Treasurer Mike Nahan stated:

"The company's proposal has best met the State Government's objectives and will provide value for money. The model enables the private consortium to spread its overheads and risks over a larger base when compared with the traditional approach of procuring each school and service separately."

"In addition, efficiencies can be achieved through standardisation of design, materials, equipment, resources and methodology for each school site, as appropriate."

Education Minister Peter Collier said the design of each school would be similar to other new public schools. Mr Collier said commented:

"The schools will also be based on ecologically sustainable design principles, with a particular emphasis on reducing energy consumption."

"The PPP model also encourages a 'whole-of-life' approach meaning schools will be maintained to a high standard equating to better facilities for the next 25 years. Principals and teaching staff will be able to focus on education, with infrastructure and maintenance needs handled by the company."