Premier

Expanding Kindergartens In The Central Goldfields Shire

15 March 2017

The Victorian Government is expanding kindergartens in the Central Goldfields Shire and increasing enrolment numbers by bringing vital family services under the one roof.

The Goldfields Children’s Centre can grow from 22 four-year-old places to 66 three-and-four-year-old places through a bigger kindergarten as well as new allied health services.

The $900,000 investment includes one new kindergarten room, two additional counselling and meeting spaces, a dedicated therapy room for speech pathology and hearing services, and the incorporation of the toy library service and supported playgroup.

Bringing vital family services, childcare and kindergarten under the one roof offers flexibility and convenience to the community.

Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos officially opened the new centre today, congratulating the Central Goldfields Shire Council and the community on their support for this vital local project.

The Government contributed $600,000 towards the centre’s upgrade and the Central Goldfields Shire Council contributed $300,000.

The Andrews Labor Government is investing $60 million in the early childhood sector through building and upgrading kindergartens and children’s centres.

Infrastructure projects such as these ensure local children’s services have the space and flexibility they need to deliver 15 hours of kindergarten alongside a range of other vital early years programs.

The National Partnership Agreement on Universal Access to Early Childhood Education, which funds 15 hours of preschool per week is due to run out this year.

Children who attend 15 hours per week of preschool do better at school, have improved job prospects and are set up to achieve their full potential.

We are making Victoria the Education State – this starts with giving every child a strong start in life.

The Liberals want to cut that vital start children need at the most important stage of their development.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos

“Participating in early childhood services and kindergarten make a big difference to children’s lives, and we’re working to ensure all Victorian children see the benefit of these programs – no matter where they live.”

“15 hours of kindergarten makes improves children’s school performance and job prospects – and these new facilities will deliver quality early childhood services to more Goldfields families.”

Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford

“We are delighted to be improving the facilities for Maryborough youngsters and their families.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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