Parramatta, a rapidly growing suburb in New South Wales, Australia, is witnessing a significant surge in its population, prompting local leaders to urge the government to reconsider plans to convert an abandoned school site into residential housing.

Residents are advocating for the repurposing of the former Macquarie Boys Technology High School site, which has been vacant since its closure in 2009, into a new educational facility to meet the increasing demand for school places.

Following the announcement by the state government to transform the 19-hectare Rydalmere site into a residential and commercial precinct with plans for approximately 2,300 homes by 2028, concerns have grown regarding adequate schooling for a burgeoning population.

Parramatta councillor Kellie Darley emphasized the necessity for schools to match the influx of families drawn to the area.

"Parramatta is so attractive to families, but without the schooling, it's just going to be impossible for families to move into the area," she stated.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics indicates that Parramatta's population increased by 14 percent from 2016 to 2021, markedly surpassing the 8 percent growth rate observed across New South Wales during the same period.

The number of school-aged children in the area has also risen, with primary school enrolments jumping from 14,130 in 2016 to 21,059 in 2021, while high school enrolments rose from 9,949 to 14,148 in that timeframe.

Enrolments at schools in Parramatta have seen similar growth; Parramatta High School's pupil numbers increased by more than 300 between 2014 and 2024. Nearby Cumberland High School has reported an increase of nearly 500 students over the past decade, leading to overcrowded conditions, including outdoor examinations held in covered learning areas, as noted by Councillor Darley.

Business Western Sydney executive director David Borger, a former student of Macquarie Boys, criticized the local government's approach to addressing the educational shortage, highlighting the disconnect between housing development and necessary educational infrastructure.

He noted, "We're in a housing crisis, we need to kick on and build housing, but that housing is going to generate demand for schooling."

In response to the school infrastructure issue, a spokesperson from the Department of Education pointed out that there are currently 14 development projects planned for new schools in the Parramatta area, with upgrades intended to lessen reliance on demountable classrooms.

The spokesperson asserted, "Public schools will accommodate every child who wishes to attend their local school where they reside in the intake area."

Councillor Darley raised concerns regarding the uncertainty surrounding the former Macquarie Boys Technology High School site, advocating for clarity on future plans for the location after the introduction of the Yallamundi light rail stop stimulated interest in the area.

She stated, "Families have moved into the area based on these commitments and then they're not happening … families are left wondering what to do."

The Macquarie Boys site, known for its role in cultural urban exploration, has suffered damage from multiple building fires over recent years, leading to the demolition of some structures in 2018. Property and Development NSW reported that plans would be solidified after selecting a development partner and stressed that the land's zoning will be finalized in the master plan.

The area is expected to have a residential focus in line with broader objectives to address housing supply in Parramatta as the state government is anticipated to release further details on the site by the end of the year.