AN independent specialist school in Hastings is set to move forward with a $4m plan to build a new educational facility at its existing campus as the school reaches capacity in student numbers.
Advance College of Education has submitted a proposal to create a new education facility adjacent to the current campus at 1973 Frankston-Flinders Rd in Hastings, which aims to accommodate a growing demand for courses and space. The proposal also aims to better support students aged primarily between 15 and 19 who may face challenges in mainstream schools, increase support for at-risk students, additional staff and resources, a comprehensive curriculum, promoting career development, and diverse opportunities in learning and vocational pathways.
The proposal comes after Mornington Peninsula Shire councillors at their 23 September public meeting voted unanimously in support of granting a 21-year ground lease of the 42,917 square metre school site. The Hastings college sits on Crown Land but is managed by the shire.
According to a shire report, the college was awaiting approval for the renewed lease before it moved ahead with the project. The proposed building would be situated on the west frontage side of the site, and be fully funded by the college. The college will however need final approval from the council and the state government as part of the permit application process.
Campuses are based at Rosebud, Hastings and Mornington with the college having reached capacity at its Hastings facility, the shire confirmed. According to the council report, as the new building could accommodate up to 60 students, 24 car spaces would be required as part of the proposal, noting if the existing car park was already at capacity, the council would request a “car park demand assessment” to ensure no adverse impact on the surrounding community.
The council report was overall supportive stating, “this expansion will significantly improve the service delivery in Hastings and across the broader Mornington Peninsula Shire”.
Warringine Ward Councillor Michael Stephens threw his support behind the proposal, saying it would open educational opportunities across Western Port. “This proposal represents a low cost, high value investment in local education infrastructure, makes use of unutilised Crown Land while supporting a community-based provider committed to re-engaging young learners in education and training,” he said. “With no objections raised and clear benefits for the region, I believe this is a responsible and forward-thinking use of council-managed land.”
The institution offers a range of industry-based courses including horticulture, landscape, construction, community services, individual support, and hospitality encompassing apprenticeships and traineeships. The college also offers the Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning at foundation, intermediate and senior levels. If the development does not proceed, the council can withdraw the 21-year lease.
First published in the Mornington News – 7 October 2025
