The design and construction of nine schools has commenced in Australia using a Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) methodology. This is the first project in Australia where social infrastructure has been acquired in this way. The Australian project is being managed by the New South Wales (NSW) State Government through its Department of Education and Training, the country's largest provider of educational services. The advantages recognized by the government of entering into a PPP arrangement of this type include increased attention to education and cost savings. (Contains 1 footnote and 1 table.)