Retain the location of the Queensland Academy of Science, Mathematics and Technology

Eligibility - Queensland residents
Principal Petitioner:
Winand D'Souza
78 Bywong Street
TOOWONG QLD 4066
Total Signatures - 4,022
Sponsoring Member: Dr Christian Rowan MP
Posting Date: 16/3/2021
Closing Date: 18/4/2021
Tabled Date: 20/4/2021
Responded By: Hon Grace Grace MP on 20/5/2021
TO: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland

Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House the proposed consideration of moving the Queensland Academy of Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT). It is noted that:

1) QASMT is a purpose-built STEM flagship state school specifically for high performing Queensland students that was just completed under a $33M STEM infrastructure program. Relocating means years of planning, government funding and tax-payers significant investment wasted.

2) QASMT is the only fully Selective Queensland STEM-focused state school. Uprooting QASMT will negatively affect enrolment and reduce QASMT’s focus on delivering highly capable graduates to power the future of Queensland’s economy.

3) Enrolments is currently 1,255. Including Yr7-9 was in part to relieve pressure on Indooroopilly and Kenmore State High School. Many of the students and families chose QASMT due to proximity, transport links, or relocated to the area. Moving QASMT will shift the capacity problem back to the local high schools.

4) QASMT students need readily accessible green space to meet their International Baccalaureate sport requirements and environment initiatives. Space which has been adapted to those needs at the current location. 

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to:

1) Retain QASMT’s current location. 

2) Maintain the government's claimed commitment to Queensland as the "Smart State" by allowing the QASMT students the space and level of facilities that they require.

3) Consider feedback that moving QASMT will significantly negatively impact current and future students and their families.