- Published:
- Friday 13 May 2016
The Andrews Labor Government is getting on with building and upgrading kinder and early childhood facilities in the parts of Victoria that need it most.
Speaking at Hillsmeade Early Learning Centre in Narre Warren South, Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos was joined by Member for Narre Warren South, Judith Graley MP to open the 2016-17 major grants round for the Children’s Facilities Capital Program.
Ms Mikakos called on local councils and kindergartens to apply for grants to build and significantly refurbish kindergartens and children’s centres across the state.
The Victorian Budget 2016/17 will provide $10 million to fund major capital projects for kinders and children’s centres in Victoria’s fastest-growing areas.
This funding is on top of $50 million over four years from the Labor Government to develop modern and flexible early childhood centres across Victoria. Grants available include:
- Up to $1.6 million to build children’s hubs for early years and family services, including Maternal and Child Health services, playgroups and parenting support
- Up to $650,000 to build brand-new early learning facilities
- Up to $350,000 for significant upgrades to existing facilities
The Labor Government is making Victoria the Education State – and this begins with giving every child a strong start in life.
Applications for the 2016-17 Children’s Facilities Capital Program grant round close 12 August 2016 at 4pm.
More information is available at:
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“This is about investing in the futures of our youngest Victorians by giving families the flexible, accessible and affordable kindergarten and care services they deserve.”
“We are boosting funds available for our highest growth areas. We are calling on local governments to apply for these grants so the right early childhood services are available to families close to home.”
“We want all of Victoria’s children as possible to enjoy the lifelong benefits that quality early years education and care can provide.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Narre Warren South Judith Graley MP
“This funding boost for growth areas is so welcome for families in the growing suburbs of Narre Warren South. The funds are available, so I encourage priority projects to be put forward to meet the needs of local families.”