Parliamentary secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin announced last week that 11 public schools in the Port Stephens LGA would be receiving upgrades to learning, sporting, amenity, building and administration facilities.

"This investment is part of our commitment to build a safer and stronger education system, it will ensure regional students can thrive in a great learning environment, no matter where they live or what their circumstances may be," Mr Martin said. "Delivery of these projects will be undertaken in the next 18 months."

Irrawang Public's principal Stacy Mathieson said that the funding was a welcome addition to the Raymond Terrace-based school.

"With a refurbished administration block along with the creation of two new classrooms, we will be able to provide our staff and students with the upgrade and additional space needed for future growth. As the proud principal of Irrawang public, I am excited for these changes," she said.

Also based in Raymond Terrace, Hunter River High School will receive $700,000 for the design and construction of a covered outdoor learning area structure to the two basketball courts and to provide all weather access to the outdoor gym and to the yarning circle.

A $30,000 grant will go towards the resurfacing of the basketball/netball court with line marking and colours at Anna Bay Public School, while Bobs Farm Public School will receive $20,000 for its shade structures and walkways and to replace and raise the concrete at the entry pathway to stop flooding.

Hinton Public School scored $120,000 to convert a residence into administration/staff facilities; including structural repairs to external garage wall and Iona Public School will get $150,000 to upgrade internal and external building modules to enclose a movement area and install additional openings which include floor coverings and coating system works.

A $30,000 grant will go towards the resurfacing of the existing bitumen at the Medowie Public School basketball court, while Mount Kanwary Public School receives a similar amount ($30,000) for the structural, fabric and building upgrade its PAA,

Salt Ash Public School will also receive $30,000 to fully upgrade its canteen, including new cupboards, stainless steel benchtop and sink, appliances, vinyl, painting, re-leveling of the floor.

A further $40,000 will go to Soldiers Point Public School to install solar panel system and $50,000 to Tanilba Bay Public School for the upgrade of its administration office.

The Regional Renewal Program will provide a government co-contribution of between 50 to 80 per cent for school infrastructure improvements to high priority schools in regional NSW and would support jobs.