The Andrews Labor Government is helping more Victorian families access kindergarten closer to home through a major investment in children’s centre infrastructure.
25 children’s centres and kindergartens across the state will benefit from a $13.5 million investment.
Visiting the site of a children’s hub in Ringwood East today, Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos made the announcement as part of a $60 million investment to develop modern and flexible early childhood centres.
Four projects will receive grants up to $1.6 million to develop integrated children’s hubs - Ringwood East, Lilydale, Officer and Cranbourne - bringing together vital early years and family services, such as maternal and child health, immunisation services, playgroups and parenting supports.
Grants up to $650,000 will help establish nine new standalone early learning facilities to offer more kindergarten places to local families.
12 existing children’s centres will receive up to $350,000 to upgrade and extend their facilities to meet demand for programs and enrich their learning environment.
The Government is focusing on areas of high population growth, with some local government areas seeing birth rates of almost 100 babies per week.
We are making Victoria the Education State – this starts with giving every child a strong start in life.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children Jenny Mikakos
“The Andrews Labor Government is building the Education State in some of Victoria’s fastest growing areas. We’re ensuring that children have access to early childhood services no matter where they live.”
“High-quality early years education and care are vital to giving every child the best start in life. That’s why this Government is transforming early childhood services.”
Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Metropolitan Shaun Leane
“Our community has experienced a significant baby boom in recent years. Investments like this will pay enormous dividends to local families for years to come.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020